Dinamo Zagreb vs NEC prediction: teams form analysis, possible lineups on October 22, 2026
On October 22, 2026, Dinamo Zagreb and NEC will face each other in the third round of the Europa League league phase. The hosts will be looking to secure a victory
Dinamo Zagreb vs NEC: team news and expert analysis
The Zagreb club reclaimed their familiar league title after a one-year hiatus. They are currently leading the standings, although not without dropping points along the way. The Nijmegen side surprised everyone by sensationally finishing third in the spring. However, they are winning less often now and have slipped into mid-table.
The Croatians returned to the Champions League, but after getting past Thun and Žalgiris Kaunas, they lost to Viking in the decisive round. After moving into the less prestigious Europa League, they settled for a goalless draw in the opening round against Hapoel Be'er Sheva in a game that was formally an away fixture. When they hosted Anderlecht in October, they snatched a 1-0 victory thanks to a late penalty.
The Dutch side surprised everyone by overcoming Olympiacos in their first-ever Champions League qualifying campaign. However, things did not work out against Bodø/Glimt, as they lost both legs. They were then thrashed 5-0 by Juventus in the Europa League. Against a much simpler opponent in Levski, and at home to boot, they could only manage a hard-fought draw.
Previous meetings: Dinamo Zagreb vs NEC
The clubs met in the UEFA Cup in 2008. The Croatians won 3-2 at home.
They are clearly stronger this time as well. We are backing them to win again (odds – 1.73).
Dinamo Zagreb vs NEC: key statistics and trends
- Dinamo Zagreb won in European competition for the first time in four matches
- Dinamo Zagreb average 2.56 goals scored and 1.33 goals conceded per match
- Both teams have scored in 67% of Dinamo Zagreb's matches, with an average total of 3.89 goals per game
- NEC have lost three of their last four matches in European competition
- NEC average 1.63 goals scored and 1.75 goals conceded per match
- Both teams have scored in 88% of NEC's matches, with an average total of 3.38 goals per game
Dinamo Zagreb vs NEC: possible starting lineups
Dinamo Zagreb play in a 1-4-1-4-1 formation (possible lineup): Kotarski - Goda, McKenna, Dominguez, Galesic - Misic - Kacavenda, Orsic, Stojkovic, Lisica - Hodza
NEC play in a 1-3-4-2-1 formation (possible lineup): Polster - Kabar, Sandler, Storm - Lebreton, Njassmi, Thomas, Bischoff - Cheri, Tadic - Linssen
Place your bet on the upcoming match and follow the team's progress in the Europa League standings
