Dinamo Zagreb recorded their seventh win in nine games this season by beating Fenerbahçe 3-1 at the Stadion Maksimir in the opening round of the UEFA Europa League (UEL) league phase.
The match’s first chance fell to ex-Fenerbahçe player Miha Zajc, who skied Moris Valinčić’s cutback when he should have done better.
His blushes would be spared though, as Dion Beljo poked Dinamo in front shortly after as the ball landed at his feet in the box.
However, far from shrinking away, Fenerbahçe responded quickly to their credit, as Sebastian Szymański’s first-time strike found the bottom corner from the edge of the area.
Ederson did have a scare in the visitors’ goal before half time, though, as Zajc was involved again for the hosts, with the goalkeeper mishandling his deflected cross and the ball almost spinning into his own net.
Dinamo had led at half time in six of their eight matches in all competitions this term before tonight, but had to settle for a level scoreline.
However, the hosts did not have to wait long into the second half to retake the lead, as Beljo completed his brace, slotting Enver Hoxha’s cross home well with a first-time finish.
But Fenerbahçe were channelling the departed Jose Mourinho’s relentless spirit, as Szymański tried his best to level proceedings again; however, his long-range shot was this time saved comfortably by Ivan Nevistić.
Both teams squandered further chances to score in the latter stages, as Dejan Ljubičić struck over before Nélson Semedo fired wide.
Dinamo then killed off the game courtesy of Monsef Bakrah, as they claimed an impressive 13th victory in 20 UEL matches, and Domenico Tedesco experienced his first defeat as Fenerbahçe manager.
Flashscore Man of the Match: Dion Beljo (Dinamo Zagreb)