Croatia started off with a defeat in Sweden.
Trelleborg, Sweden | 25. October 2025.
The Croatian rugby team suffered a defeat in the opening match of the new European Nations Cup cycle. Playing away in Trelleborg, Sweden claimed a convincing 57–12 victory, reaffirming their status as one of the main favorites to advance to the higher Championship division. Up next for Croatia are crucial matches in which they’ll be fighting for vital points to secure their position.
A heavy pitch and tough conditions.
Freezing rain and strong winds set the scene in Trelleborg, but that didn’t stop both teams from putting on a great show. Croatia stunned the home side right from the start — Daniel Mau’u capped off an excellent team move with a try to make it 5–0, silencing the stadium for a moment.
The joy was short-lived. Sweden equalized through Granath in the 10th minute, and Robertsson added the conversion to turn the score around (7–5). Just five minutes later, Loman extended the home team’s lead to 14–5, with another precise conversion from Robertsson.
When Loman scored again in the 38th minute after a spectacular run (19–5), it seemed the match was all but decided. However, the Croatian side didn’t give up. Just before halftime, Andrija Galić broke through for a try, and Jason Newton converted successfully — 19–12. The first half ended with everything still to play for.
Sweden take control.
The second half painted a completely different picture. The home side, benefiting from fresher rotations and the advantage of playing on home turf, began to pile on the points. De Chavaille scored twice, while Qvarbstrom, Fryxell, Hector, and Kalling-Smith each added a try. Robertsson converted four times, and the final score of 57–12 reflected Sweden’s true dominance in the second half.
Words from head coach Poša.
"Sweden are a well-drilled team — they’ve been playing together for several years — while we were missing half of our squad. But we’re not looking for excuses; what matters is learning from this defeat. We’ll do better against Denmark," said head coach Poša.
Meanwhile, Poland defeated Lithuania 41–8, showing why they, along with Sweden, are among the main contenders for the top of the table.
Makarska as a chance to earn points.
Croatia will host Denmark in Makarska on October 31. It’s a match that could determine the team’s fate in the battle to stay in the Trophy division. A week later, on November 8, Split will host the clash with the Czech Republic.
Home advantage, the return of key players, and strong crowd support — these are the assets Croatia must capitalize on. The lesson from Trelleborg is clear: squad depth and lineup consistency are crucial for success at this level of competition.
Despite the defeat, there’s reason to be proud — four players from Rugby Club Zagreb wore the Croatian jersey in Trelleborg. Marko Livaić, Luka Šiklić, Ivano Šojić, and Niko Vranešević proved that hard work and dedication at the club level do not go unnoticed. Their presence in the national team is a testament to the quality of work being done in our club.
This quartet gained valuable international experience, which will undoubtedly bring added quality to their performances for the club as the season continues.
The chance for redemption comes quickly, and the expectations are clear — the points must stay at home.
Bab Šik!
Photo by: Berisalv Rožman