A real treat awaits us this weekend, on Saturday to be precise. While the Pioneers and Cadets 2 also face a far from easy task in Osijek, the real derby, the biggest one, is being played in Split. Actually, two derbies. Both our Cadets and Juniors play against Hajduk at Poljud.

The Cadets, led by Tomislav Mikulić, have been flawless in the league so far. In their seven matches to date, they have collected the maximum number of points.

"We're really pleased with our results so far. I'd like to take the opportunity to praise our players, because they've been impeccable in these first seven rounds, and in doing so they've motivated themselves and all of us to keep working. We believe we can be even better.", said Mikulić.

He also revealed how the players are preparing for the derby.

"The players have done most of the preparation simply by playing so well over these seven rounds. They're full of confidence, and we're preparing just as we have for every match so far. We'll be looking exclusively at ourselves, at meeting our demands and the principles we agree on."

A word or two about Hajduk?

"Hajduk is always our biggest rival. We've known that all these years. We go in with respect for our opponent, but we'll be focused on ourselves, on establishing our way of playing and on imposing ourselves throughout the match."

What is the squad situation?

"We're at full strength. All players are available and healthy, we have no problems and everyone is at our disposal", concluded Mikulić.

The Juniors, coached by Milan Badelj, are also unbeaten so far this season. Their record stands at five wins and two draws.

"I'm satisfied with how the season has gone so far. I'm pleased with our progress, both individual and collective. I think we're growing, it's all a process. There are moments when it's a bit more challenging, a bit harder, but we're in it together and we fight. All in all, I'm generally satisfied", said Badelj ahead of the match.

He also answered the question of what kind of match we can expect at Poljud.

"A derby. The word itself describes a match that will certainly be charged with emotion. We'll try to play with structure and sense, and to be on the pitch with both heart and mind, so that we can celebrate at the end", said the coach.

Hajduk have not had the best start to the season - they have four wins at home, but also four defeats away.

"In essence, our situation is similar. Of our seven matches, the two we didn't win were also away from home. That's something we have to work on; we need to progress and be better. Their start to the season can be deceptive because of the fixture schedule. We've analysed them, they're a good team with a very good coach. A very challenging match certainly awaits us".

What is the squad situation?

"There are a few absentees and a few minor injuries, so not everything is at 100 percent. However, the squad is good enough to stand up to Hajduk at Poljud", concluded Badelj.

You can follow both matches live on our app, Dinamo +. The Cadets kick off at 14:30, and the Juniors at 16:30.