April 9, 2021 - Dinamo Zagreb advanced to the Croatian Cup final with a victory against Gorica after extra time in the semifinal match 4-1 (0-1, 1-1).
Gorica opened the match very well, took the lead with a goal by Špikić (3), but at the beginning of the second half, Mišić (46) equalized for 1-1. Dinamo's victory was secured in extra time thanks to Jakić (100), Majer (110), and Ademi (118).
Recap
Gorica took the lead thanks to an early goal the young Gorica striker Špikić, who will play for Dinamo from the summer.
Gorica was a better opponent throughout the first half. Dinamo, despite falling behind, did not create a single dangerous situation in front of the opponent's goal. At the same time, Gorica threatened from quick counterattacks but lacked precision in the end to increase the lead.
The match completely turned around at the beginning of the second half when Dinamo coach Damir Krznar introduced Ademi and Majer into the game instead of Ivanušec and Franjić.
After only 46 seconds of play in the second half, Mišić equalized with an excellent shot from 20 meters. Kastrati entered the penalty area from the right side, pulled the defense on himself, and then served Mišić with a ball to score.
In the 49th minute, Gorica was left with a player less after referee Zebec booked Keita with a second yellow. Dinamo then absolutely dominated.
Dinamo could have won before the end of the 90th minute. Oršić blew a chance in the 69th minute and decided to pass to Majer instead, while Kastrati missed with his head from four meters out in the 72nd minute.
Gorica could not hold on during the extra time. Dinamo took the lead in almost the same way that they equalized. Kastrati got the ball on the right-wing and sent the ball to Jakić, who shot from about 20 meters. Banić was helpless.
By the end of the match, Majer and Ademi set the final score in the 110th and 118th minutes, respectively, with precise low shots from the top of the penalty area.
In the final on May 19 in Velika Gorica, Dinamo will play against Istra 1961, which defeated the defending champions Rijeka 3-2 in the first semifinal two weeks ago.
Dinamo has won the Cup 15 times so far, while Istra 1961 does not have a single title.
Source: HRT
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