RK Zagreb Claims Croatian Cup with Dominant 32-21 Win Over Nexe

Zagreb Cruises to 32nd Croatian Cup Title

RK Zagreb secured their 32nd Croatian Handball Cup trophy with a commanding 32-21 victory over Nexe Našice in the final held in Poreč. The capital club displayed superior depth and tactical discipline, effectively neutralizing their opponents early and never looking back. The match, played on Sunday, showcased the enduring dominance of one of Europe’s most successful handball institutions.

The decisive phase of the game occurred in the first half. After a tight opening quarter saw Zagreb lead 9-6, the team orchestrated by coach Boris Dvoršek launched a blistering 14-minute run to stretch their advantage to 14-7. This surge shifted the momentum entirely. Zagreb entered the second half with a comfortable lead and extended it to a two-digit margin of 20-10 by the 39th minute, rendering the remainder of the contest largely ceremonial.

Star Performances and a Career Farewell

Georgia’s Giorgi Chovrebadze was the standout performer for the winners, netting nine goals to claim the tournament’s best player award. He was supported by a balanced attack: Davor Gavrić and Ihor Bialjavski each contributed five goals, while Stanislav Sadovski added three. Between the posts, goalkeeper Sandro Meštrić was a wall, recording 12 saves from 26 attempts.

For Nexe, the Cenić brothers led the line. Ognjen Cenić scored six goals, with his brother Aleksandar adding five. Despite their efforts, the defense could not contain Zagreb’s varied offensive threats.

The final score was sealed by a penalty stroke from Jakov Gojun, a celebrated Croatian international. This goal marked a poignant moment, as the veteran announced he would retire at the end of the season. His career concluded on a high note, adding another trophy to his extensive collection.

Chasing the 34th League Crown

With the cup secured, Zagreb’s attention turns to the league title. The season finale approaches on Friday, May 29, at 18:00, when they host RK Sesvete in the first leg of the championship final at the Kutija šibica arena. A victory here would secure their 34th consecutive Croatian league title and their 32nd domestic double, further cementing their legacy in Balkan sports history.