Spartak Moscow v Dinamo Zagreb match preview

Without hesitation once the UEFA Cup draw was completed, this was one of the highlight matches that are a "must-see." After defeating N.E.C. Nijmegen 3-2, Dinamo Zagreb fell to London's Tottenham 4-0 but will look to return to glory this evening against Spartak Moscow. No match at Maksimir in Zagreb can be taken for granted and Myaso must expect a "special welcome" from the Croatian supporters. The match will be bathed in tension with Dinamo now in the controls of Marijan Vlak as the club and Branko Ivanković felt it best that he resign his post as well as Spartak's 'keeper Stipe Pletikosa formerly played with Dinamo rivals HNK Hajduk Split. Michael Laudrup's Spartak side were showing great promise and then after their great victory over CSKA Moscow, they fell apart with losses to Lokomotiv, Zenit and a draw to Luch-Energiya Vladivostok. Particularly maddening to supporters was effort against Zenit Saint Petersburg in which they looked to show little spirit or intent. For Spartak to be successful in Zagreb they will need to show the same passion and resolve as they did against CSKA or Dinamo will overwhelm them.

I will report on the match as it concludes.