Rijeka 0-1 1. FC Union Berlin — a single second-half goal was enough for Union Berlin to edge Rijeka in an international club friendly on September 27, 2026. The match was competitive and tactical, with both sides using the fixture to sharpen their fitness and test different combinations ahead of their domestic campaigns.

Match overview

Rijeka started brightly in front of their home supporters, pressing high and looking to force mistakes in Union Berlin’s build-up. The Croatian side moved the ball quickly through midfield and created a few half-chances, but they could not find the final touch. Union Berlin grew into the game and began to control possession with longer spells, patiently probing for gaps.

The only goal arrived in the second half, and it proved decisive. Union Berlin’s goal came from a quick transition, catching Rijeka slightly open at the back. The finish was calm and precise, and from there the German side managed the game with maturity.

First half: Rijeka press, Union Berlin absorb

Rijeka’s midfield pressed aggressively in the opening 25 minutes, forcing Union Berlin into several hurried clearances. The home side’s wingers stayed wide and attacked the fullbacks, while the striker dropped deep to link play. However, Union Berlin’s back three remained compact and dealt with most crosses comfortably.

As the half progressed, Union Berlin found more space in midfield. Their wing-backs pushed higher, and the front two combined well to hold up the ball. Rijeka’s goalkeeper was called into action twice before the break, making one strong save from a low drive and another from a close-range header.

Decisive moment

The breakthrough came in the 63rd minute. Union Berlin won the ball in midfield and immediately played forward. A clever pass split Rijeka’s defensive line, and the attacker took one touch before placing a low shot beyond the goalkeeper. Rijeka’s defenders appealed for offside, but the goal stood, and Union Berlin had the lead.

Rijeka responded with urgency. They pushed more players forward and forced a series of corners, but Union Berlin’s defense held firm. The best chance for an equalizer came in the 78th minute when a header flashed just wide of the post. Union Berlin then slowed the tempo, using their experience to see out the final minutes.

Tactical notes

Union Berlin’s shape without the ball was disciplined, often forming a compact block that limited central penetration. They allowed Rijeka to have possession in wide areas but defended the box well. In attack, their quick vertical passes and intelligent runs behind the defense caused the most problems.

Rijeka’s approach was energetic and front-foot, but they lacked a cutting edge in the final third. Their pressing created turnovers, yet the final pass was often delayed or overhit. The friendly also gave both managers a chance to rotate their squads, and the substitutions disrupted the flow in the second half.

Standout players

Union Berlin’s goalkeeper was reliable when called upon, and the central defender who organized the back line was arguably the best player on the pitch. The goalscorer showed excellent movement and composure, while the midfield anchor broke up several Rijeka attacks.

For Rijeka, the left winger was a constant threat with his direct running, and the central midfielder dictated play in the first half. The striker worked hard but was often isolated against two center-backs. The home goalkeeper also made important saves to keep the score at 0-1.

Friendly takeaways

The result is less important than the performance in a club friendly, but Union Berlin will be pleased with a clean sheet and a professional away win. Rijeka will take positives from their pressing and intensity, though they will want more quality in the final third. Both teams now turn their attention to their next fixtures, with fitness, rhythm, and tactical sharpness the main priorities.

For Union Berlin, the 1-0 win is a useful confidence boost and another step in building match fitness. For Rijeka, the match offered valuable lessons about breaking down compact defenses and converting pressure into goals. With the season ahead, both sides will use this friendly as a reference point for improvement.