A thrilling volleyball encounter took place at Višnjik in Zadar during the 5th round of the European Golden League. Despite facing numerous setbacks in the competition, Croatia emerged triumphant against North Macedonia with a hard-fought 3-2 victory (20-25, 25-17, 25-23, 15-25, 15-13) after an intense 122 minutes of play.
The significance of this victory becomes even more remarkable considering Croatia’s persistent injury troubles. The Croatian head coach was forced to employ a combination that would not typically come to mind. However, his decision proved to be the right call. With both setters, Višić and Bakonji, injured, he placed libero Hrvoje Pervan in one of the most crucial positions on the lineup. Pervan performed exceptionally well in this unexpected role, leaving room for him to consider permanently playing in that position.
From the outset, the return of recovering players Filip Šestan and Petar Đirlić proved to be a wise move. Đirlić contributed an impressive 22 points, while Šestan added 10 crucial points towards the end of the match. However, the victory was not solely attributed to their performances. In a gamble during the fifth set, the coach introduced young talent Gabrijel Cvanciger as an opposite player, and it was the unassuming Marino Marelić, the wildcard from the bench, who ultimately made the decisive moves. Marelić’s pivotal point at 13-13 and an ace for 14-13 propelled Croatia to an inspiring victory.
Pool A
Turkey vs Portugal 3-1 (23-25, 25-20, 25-21, 25-20)
Romania vs Denmark 3-1 (29-27, 22-25, 25-21, 25-19)
Pool B
Ukraine vs Belgium 3-0 (25-21, 25-14, 25-13)
Croatia vs North Macedonia 3-2 (20-25, 25-17, 25-23, 15-25, 15-13)
Pool C
Slovakia vs Estonia 2-3 (25-20, 25-21, 20-25, 20-25, 17-19)
Finland vs Czech Republic 0-3 (17-25, 21-25, 18-25)
