Croatian Football Championship to Be Settled in Last 90 Minutes

The conclusion of the 2025 Croatian European Championship (SHNL) seems to follow a script strikingly similar to the intense competition of Italy’s Serie A: the final matchday promises chills and thrills—an affair only for the brave.

Three-Way Showdown for the Title

On Sunday, May 25 at 5:00 PM, one of the most gripping finales in the history of Croatia’s top flight will unfold, with three teams still vying for the title. Rijeka, Dinamo Zagreb, and Hajduk Split are separated by just two points and will play it all out in the final 90 minutes of the season.

Rijeka and Dinamo Zagreb sit atop the standings with 62 points, while Hajduk trails with 60. Rijeka will have the chance to seal the title at home in Rujevica by beating Slaven Belupo—victory would make them champions regardless of the other results. Dinamo must defeat Varaždin at the Maksimir Stadium and hope for a Rijeka stumble. Hajduk, led by Gennaro Gattuso, needs a miracle: they must beat Šibenik away and pray for favorable outcomes elsewhere. Should all three teams finish level on points, it would be Hajduk lifting the trophy, thanks to a superior head-to-head record.

The Trophy in Transit: A Unique Plan

In a scenario fit for the big screen, Croatian Football Federation (HNS) president Marijan Kustić will be stationed in Bosiljevo—a strategic highway junction in the heart of Croatia. With him, in the trunk of his car, will be the original championship trophy and medals for the winners. From there, depending on the final outcome, he will drive to the home of the new champions: both Zagreb and Rijeka are less than an hour away, while Split is much farther at approximately 267 kilometers.

This unprecedented initiative in HNL history has dismissed the idea of using trophy replicas or alternate transport like helicopters. The Federation made its stance clear: “It is only right that the original trophy be handed over directly on the pitch, immediately after the triumph.” The plan—barring any last-minute changes—has been mapped out in great detail, including potential police escort and security measures to ensure the delegation reaches the celebration site without delay.

An Unpredictable Season Comes to a Head

The 2024/2025 season has been anything but predictable. Rijeka seemed destined for the title before stumbling against Hajduk, which reopened the title race. Dinamo endured a turbulent season but managed to claw their way back to the top. Hajduk, after a crisis that saw just one win in six matches, reignited hope with a crucial victory over Rijeka.

Now, the fate of the title lies on the field. Whatever the final result, this title race will long be remembered. And perhaps, as many have suggested, it might even become the perfect story for an internationally acclaimed documentary.