Rijeka crowned new Croatian champions in dramatic final day decider

Rijeka crowned champions

HNK Rijeka have been crowned champions of the SuperSport HNL after a thrilling final day of the 2024/25 season, securing the league title with a 2-0 home victory over Slaven Belupo.

Goals from Niko Janković and Toni Fruk sealed the win at Rujevica and ensured Rijeka finished top of the table, ahead of Dinamo Zagreb on a head-to-head record.

It marks just the second time in the club’s history that Rijeka have lifted the Croatian top-flight trophy, having first won the league in 2017.

The title also puts an end to Dinamo’s recent dominance, with the Zagreb giants having claimed 18 of the last 19 championships.

Final Day Drama

For the first time in 20 years, the Croatian league title was decided on the final day of the season – and for only the fourth time ever, three clubs were in the running. Rijeka, Dinamo Zagreb and Hajduk Split all went into the final round with a chance to be crowned champions.

Dinamo also did their part, winning their final match 1-0 against Varaždin to finish level on points with Rijeka. However, Rijeka had the superior head-to-head record, giving them the crucial edge in the title race.

Hajduk Split, who beat Šibenik 1-0, finished third.

While Dinamo have dominated Croatian football in recent decades, Rijeka have consistently been among the top clubs. In addition to their two titles, the club have finished runners-up eight times.

SuperSport HNL table

Double Dream Still Alive

Rijeka’s season could get even better. With the league title secured, they now turn their attention to the Croatian Cup final, where they will once again face Slaven Belupo in the second leg on Thursday.

The first leg finished 1-1, giving Rijeka a strong chance of completing a historic league and cup double.