NK Bravo 1–2 Rijeka | International Club Friendly
June 28, 2026 | Športni park Stanko Mlakar, Kranj

HNK Rijeka continued their pre‑season preparations with a hard‑earned 2–1 victory over Slovenian PrvaLiga side NK Bravo. The Croatian outfit used the friendly to build match sharpness ahead of their European campaign, while Bravo gained useful minutes against strong opposition.

Match Progression

Rijeka opened the scoring in the 22nd minute through striker Franko Kovačević, who finished a low cross from the right. Bravo equalised ten minutes later with a fine header from centre‑back Nejc Gradišar after a corner kick. The visitors regained the lead just before the hour mark when midfielder Ivan Lepinjica fired home from the edge of the box.

Pre‑Season Context

Rijeka, under new head coach, are testing tactics and squad depth during their summer friendlies. This match was part of their training camp in Slovenia, where they faced a Bravo side known for their disciplined defensive shape. Bravo, who finished 6th in the Slovenian league last season, are themselves preparing for the new campaign and showed promise in spells.

Key Takeaways

• Rijeka’s pressing: The visitors forced several turnovers high up the pitch, especially in the first half.
• Bravo’s set‑piece threat: The home team looked dangerous from dead balls and could have scored a second.
• Rotation: Both sides made multiple substitutions in the second half, typical of pre‑season friendlies.

Attendance: 1,200 | Next friendly: Rijeka vs. Olimpija Ljubljana; Bravo vs. Domžale