Rijeka claimed a 3-0 home win over Gorica in the Superliga on 25 October 2026, winning 25-19, 25-22 and 25-23. The scoreline looked comfortable on paper, but the third set in particular demanded composure as Rijeka held off a determined Gorica fightback.

Match overview

Rijeka set the tone in the opening set with a strong serving display and controlled blocking. Gorica struggled to find rhythm in attack and fell behind early, allowing Rijeka to close the first frame 25-19. The second set was more competitive, with Gorica improving their reception and staying within touching distance through the middle phase. Rijeka’s attacking depth, however, gave them the edge down the stretch as they took it 25-22.

The third set produced the most drama. Gorica built a narrow lead and looked capable of forcing a fourth set, but Rijeka stayed patient and won the critical rallies late on. A well-placed serve and a decisive transition kill swung the momentum, and Rijeka sealed the match 25-23 to complete the sweep.

Key moments

• First set: Rijeka’s early serving run created a 10-4 advantage that Gorica could not erase.
• Second set: With the score at 21-21, Rijeka won three of the next four rallies to take control.
• Third set: Gorica led 20-18, but Rijeka responded with a composed finishing sequence to close it out.

Tactical story

Rijeka’s success was built on serve-receive stability and quick transition. When their first contact was clean, their setter was able to involve the middle attack and create space for the outside hitters. Gorica’s block often arrived a fraction late, and Rijeka’s attackers exploited the gaps with smart shot selection.

Gorica’s best moments came when they managed to slow the match down and win longer rallies. Their defence improved as the night progressed, and in the third set they found ways to score through the block rather than around it. But Rijeka’s experience in the closing points proved decisive. They stayed aggressive in key moments while Gorica’s error count rose slightly under pressure.

Standout performers

Rijeka captain Ivan Marković delivered a composed all-round performance, leading by example in both attack and block. Opposite hitter Luka Perinić provided a reliable scoring outlet, especially in the second set, while libero Marin Glasnović kept the back court organised. For Gorica, Josip Vidović was their most dangerous attacker and caused Rijeka problems during the third-set revival.

Season impact

Rijeka’s 3-0 win gives them a solid home result and a boost in the Superliga standings. The manner of the third-set victory will be particularly pleasing, as it showed the team’s ability to handle pressure when the match tightened. Gorica leave with a defeat but can take confidence from their improved second and third sets. They will need to find more consistency from the service line if they are to turn narrow losses into wins.