Historic Rivalry Renewed: Dinamo Zagreb vs Red Star Belgrade

Historic football rivals Dinamo Zagreb and Red Star Belgrade triumphed in their Champions League qualifying playoffs, potentially setting up their first match in 33 years. Both teams, along with Lille and Slovan Bratislava, have secured a place in the new 36-team league format starting next month.

Historic football rivals Dinamo Zagreb and Red Star Belgrade have advanced in their Champions League qualifying playoffs, positioning themselves for a potential face-off for the first time in 33 years. The last time these teams met was in May 1991, during the breakup of the Yugoslavian league amid escalating ethnic tensions in the Balkans.

On Wednesday, Dinamo won against Qarabag with an aggregate score of 5-0, while Red Star overcame a 2-1 deficit to win 2-0 against Bodo/Glimt. Both teams, along with Lille and Slovan Bratislava, now complete the 36-team Champions League lineup for the upcoming draw.

The new Champions League format abolishes traditional group stages, replacing them with a single league phase. Teams will compete in eight matches against different opponents, with the top eight advancing directly to the round of 16. The draw on Thursday will determine the initial matchups.

(With inputs from agencies.)