Dinamo – AEK

Europe - UEFA Champions League, Qualification, Qualification round 3

The entire AEK organization is overshadowed by the tragic incident involving the murder of one of its fans. The reactions have been varied, with Dinamo seeking UEFA's intervention for penalties and those apprehended demanding justice for the victim. The extensive security measures adopted for the mission in Croatia are reminiscent of the protocols for a head of state reception rather than those typical of a football match. In a gesture of defiance, AEK declined the customary meal offered by the host. Amidst this turmoil, the team had to prepare for the impending match.

The extent of the impact of these events on the team's morale remains uncertain. The momentum garnered from their impressive performances in friendlies, including notable wins against Antwerp (3-0, a potential opponent in the play-offs), Shakhtar (5-0), and Trabzonspor (3-1), has seemingly dissipated. Additionally, AEK's debut at the "OPAP Arena" in the maiden European match added to the challenge. Almeida acknowledged this difficulty during a press conference and attested to the challenge of maintaining focus amid the Dinamo fixtures. Furthermore, the team's first match in the Stoiximan SL against Panaitolikos was postponed.

Turning to match-related updates: One positive aspect is that the intervening week has afforded Vida (A), a Dinamo player from 2011-13, ample time to recover from his injury. He is expected to regain his place in the starting lineup. The captain, Araujo (E), has been included in the 23-man squad; however, he is likely to be among the three players excluded due to his ongoing recovery from a severe injury. Gacinovic (M) remains sidelined due to discomfort, and the recently arrived Ponce (E), along with the injured Fernandez (M), are not on the list.

The circumstances surrounding the game have transformed, making it unclear which of the two teams will be more affected.