Match: NK Osijek vs. Caykur Rizespor
Date: 26 July 2026, 00:00 local time
Competition: International Club Friendly
Final Score: NK Osijek 1 – 3 Caykur Rizespor

Match Overview

Croatian top‑flight side NK Osijek suffered a convincing 3‑1 defeat at home to Turkish Süper Lig team Caykur Rizespor in a preseason friendly that highlighted significant defensive frailties. The visiting side raced into a two‑goal lead before half‑time and never looked back.

First Half: Rizespor Dominate

Rizespor took control from the opening whistle. In the 12th minute, a swift counter‑attack ended with left winger Benhur Keser squaring for striker Joe Daley to tap in. Osijek struggled to cope with the pace and movement of the Turkish attack. The second goal arrived in the 38th minute when centre‑back Emirhan Topçu rose highest to head home a corner, leaving the home side with a mountain to climb.

Second Half: Osijek Pull One Back but Rizespor Seal Victory

Osijek came out fighting after the break and reduced the deficit in the 55th minute through forward Miroslav Ćorić, who pounced on a loose ball inside the box. However, any hopes of a comeback were dashed just ten minutes later when Rizespor substitute Abdulkadir Omur finished clinically after a neat through ball. Rizespor could have added more but hit the post twice in the closing stages.

Tactical Analysis

NK Osijek's high defensive line was repeatedly exposed by Rizespor’s quick transitions. The Turkish side pressed effectively and used the flanks well. Osijek coach Zoran Zekić will have plenty to work on defensively before the new Prva HNL season.

Star Performers

• Joe Daley (Rizespor): Opened the scoring and was a constant menace with his movement.
• Emirhan Topçu (Rizespor): Dominant at set pieces, scoring one and winning several aerial duels.
• Miroslav Ćorić (Osijek): Took his goal well and was one of the few bright spots for the home side.

Preseason Context

Rizespor will be delighted with a comprehensive away win as they prepare for the Süper Lig campaign. For Osijek, this result serves as a wake‑up call. Both teams have further friendlies scheduled before their respective domestic seasons begin.