Dinamo Zagreb secured a 4-1 victory over Slaven Belupo in the 35th round of the HNL. With several first-choice players absent, head coach Mario Kovačević gave opportunities to second-tier players and juniors, including 19-year-old Josip Brundić, who made his debut for the club.

Brundić, a midfielder known for his versatility, was given the number 55 jersey, previously worn by Ante Rukavina, Ognjen Vukojević, and Dino Perić. He hails from the village of Miljana, part of Zagorska Sela in the Krapinsko-zagorska County, which has less than 100 residents and is close to the Slovenian border.

The young player started training at the age of seven with the Slovenian club Imeno and then moved to Rogaška for three and a half years. He later returned to Croatia to play for Inter and Slaven, before joining Dinamo from Koprivnica two years ago. Brundić, a member of the Croatian U-19 national team, has impressed with 14 goals in 27 junior matches.

Trainer Jerko Leko has been particularly supportive of Brundić, leading to a new contract with Dinamo, valid until 2029. Born on May 5th in Zagreb, Brundić's debut comes with a special connection to the Maksimir Stadium, which was opened on the same date in 1912. The next match for Dinamo, against Lokomotiva, could be Brundić's first appearance at the stadium he is so closely linked with.