The UEFA Europa League Third Qualifying Round presents an intriguing clash as Croatian side HNK Rijeka hosts Irish club Shelbourne FC at the Stadion HNK Rijeka. This is a crucial match for both teams, as they aim to get one step closer to the prestigious Europa League group stage. Rijeka, a team with significant European experience, will be looking to capitalize on their home advantage, while Shelbourne will be hoping to secure a vital away goal to give them an edge in the second leg.
Rijeka enters this match with a solid domestic form, demonstrating both a strong attack and a disciplined defense. Shelbourne, meanwhile, has been on a mixed run but showed promise in their recent league win. The lack of a previous head-to-head record between these two clubs adds an element of unpredictability to the tie. The winner of this two-legged contest will advance to the play-off round, with the ultimate prize of a place in the Europa League group stage on the line. Expect a tactical battle, with both teams eager to prove their continental credentials.
Match Details
- Competition: UEFA Europa League Third Qualifying Round (First Leg)
- Location: Rijeka, Croatia
- Stadium: Stadion HNK Rijeka
- Date: Wednesday, August 6, 2025
- Kick-off Time: 2:45 PM ET / 8:45 PM CEST
- Indian Time (IST): 12:15 AM IST (Thursday, August 7, 2025)
- Referee: Ricardo de Burgos Bengoetxea (Spain)
Head-to-Head & Form Guide
There is no known competitive head-to-head record between HNK Rijeka and Shelbourne FC. This will be the first-ever meeting between the two clubs. As a result, recent form and tactical preparation will be the most important factors heading into this match.
Rijeka:
Rijeka has been in solid form, with three wins, one draw, and one loss in their last five competitive matches across all competitions. They have shown their attacking capabilities in their latest 2-0 league win over Slaven Belupo, while also demonstrating defensive solidity by keeping a clean sheet. Under coach Radomir Đalović, the team has been working on strengthening their defense, which has proven effective. The home advantage, with their passionate fanbase, will be a significant factor in their favor.
- August 3, 2025: Rijeka 2–0 Slaven Belupo (Croatian Football League)
- July 30, 2025: Ludogorets 3–1 Rijeka (Champions League Qualifying)
- July 26, 2025: Rijeka 2–0 Grosuplje (Club Friendly)
- July 22, 2025: Rijeka 0–0 Ludogorets (Champions League Qualifying)
Shelbourne:
Shelbourne FC has had a mixed run of results, with two wins, one draw, and two losses in their last five competitive matches. They secured a much-needed confidence boost with a recent 2-0 away victory over Sligo Rovers in their domestic league. Shelbourne has struggled in their recent European outings, including a heavy defeat in the Champions League qualifiers. The team will need to significantly step up their game, particularly in attack, to pose a threat to Rijeka’s defense. The experience of coach Joseph Martin O’Brien will be crucial in a high-pressure European environment.
- August 2, 2025: Sligo Rovers 0–2 Shelbourne (League of Ireland Premier Division)
- July 30, 2025: Qarabağ 1–0 Shelbourne (Champions League Qualifying)
- July 23, 2025: Shelbourne 0–3 Qarabağ (Champions League Qualifying)
- July 19, 2025: Fairview Rangers 0–4 Shelbourne (FAI Cup)
Tactical Analysis & Key Players
This match is expected to be a test of Rijeka’s attacking strength against Shelbourne’s defensive resilience. Rijeka, playing at home, will likely dominate possession and use their high-pressing style to put pressure on the Shelbourne defense. Their goal-scoring ability, which has been evident in recent matches, will be a major threat. Shelbourne, on the other hand, will be tactically disciplined and will likely play a more cautious game, absorbing pressure and looking to hit Rijeka on the counter-attack. The battle in the midfield will be key, as both teams have dynamic players who can influence the flow of the game. A crucial factor will be whether Shelbourne can hold their own defensively and prevent Rijeka from scoring a commanding lead in the first leg.
How to Watch Rijeka vs. Shelbourne on TV, Live Stream
| Country | TV/Live Stream |
|---|---|
| Croatia | N/A |
| Ireland | N/A |
| United States | N/A |
| United Kingdom | N/A |
| India | N/A |
Broadcast information for this match is not yet confirmed in most regions. It is common for some clubs to provide live streams on their official websites or YouTube channels for European qualifiers, so it is worth checking those sources. Additionally, some international sports broadcasters may pick up the match closer to the date.
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