Igor Štimac (foto: Posnetek zaslona)
Igor Štimac hails Zrinjski’s 1-1 draw with Crystal Palace and backs defender Duje Dujmović as a future Croatia international.
Igor Štimac expressed pride after Zrinjski Mostar earned a 1-1 draw against Crystal Palace in the Conference League, keeping alive hopes of a historic upset despite a massive financial gap between the two sides.
According to Transfermarkt estimates, Palace’s squad is valued at approximately €536 million, compared to Zrinjski’s €8 million. Yet the Bosnian side stood firm in Mostar, earning a result that preserves their chances ahead of the return leg in London.
“Only €523 million difference”
Štimac highlighted both tactical discipline and collective effort.
“I am proud of the players, the crowd and the whole performance today. I wanted us to be alive before the second leg. We achieved that, although we could have been even more alive. We knew they were strong, but I am pleased that we managed to adapt and close the channels of play. You could see the energy of my players. The difference between us is not big — only €523 million,” he said with a smile.
Zrinjski matched Palace physically and tactically for long stretches, limiting the Premier League side’s attacking flow and capitalising on their own opportunities.
Dujmović earns recommendation
Štimac also singled out 22-year-old defender Duje Dujmović, whom he believes has the profile for the Croatian national team under Zlatko Dalić.
Standing 190 cm tall, Dujmović has made notable progress over the past year and plays in a position Croatia currently lack depth.
“I recommended him to Zlatko Dalić. He plays in a position where there is a shortage. He has good technique, he is strong in the air, calm on the ball and has heart. I told him to be patient. There will be time for big moves and transfers. I am happy he plays for us — we rejected several clubs,” Štimac added.
Dujmović began his career at Solin before spells with Šibenik and Rijeka, gradually building experience before establishing himself at Zrinjski.
While the financial disparity remains vast, the first-leg result suggests that Zrinjski will travel to London with belief rather than fear.