Cibalia Stuns Rudes with Late Drama in Croatian First Football League Thriller

A dramatic clash at the 1. HNL saw HNK Cibalia snatch a 3-2 victory away to Rudes on 15 May 2026. The match, played under the lights, delivered end-to-end action, crucial goals, and a late twist that left the home crowd silenced.

Match Overview

Rudes entered the fixture needing points to climb away from the relegation zone, while Cibalia aimed to solidify a mid-table finish. The first half was tightly contested, with both sides creating chances. However, it was Rudes who struck first through a well-worked set piece in the 23rd minute. Their lead lasted only eight minutes, as Cibalia equalised with a stunning long-range strike from captain Josip Barišić.

Key Moments

• 23' – Goal Rudes: A corner was flicked on at the near post, and Marko Kolar nodded home from close range.
• 31' – Goal Cibalia: Josip Barišić collected a loose ball 25 yards out and curled a shot into the top corner.
• 54' – Goal Cibalia: A rapid counter-attack saw striker Luka Šimunović slot past the Rudes goalkeeper after a perfectly timed through ball.
• 68' – Goal Rudes (Penalty): Rudes were awarded a soft penalty after a VAR check. Ante Tomić converted confidently to level the score at 2-2.
• 85' – Goal Cibalia: Substitute Ivan Miličević rose highest at a corner to power a header into the net, sealing all three points for the visitors.

Tactical Story

Rudes tried to press high but were repeatedly caught by Cibalia's quick transitions. The visitors' midfield trio dictated possession after the break, forcing Rudes into defensive errors. Cibalia's manager switched to a 4-2-3-1 early in the second half, which allowed their creative midfielder Barišić more freedom to orchestrate attacks.

Standout Players

• Josip Barišić (Cibalia): A goal and an assist, plus tireless work in midfield. His vision caused constant problems.
• Ante Tomić (Rudes): Scored the equaliser and was a physical presence, but couldn't inspire a full comeback.
• Ivan Miličević (Cibalia): His late winner off the bench proved decisive.

Table Impact

The win moved Cibalia into eighth place with 34 points, six clear of the relegation playoff spot with three games remaining. Rudes, meanwhile, remain in 10th place, only two points above the drop zone, needing a strong finish to their season to survive.