Dinamo Zagreb strengthened their Europa League campaign with a convincing home victory over Steaua Bucharest, inspired by an early goal from Monsef Bakrar that set the tone for a dominant performance.
The Algerian international opened the scoring just seven minutes into Thursday night’s Group Stage encounter, marking his second goal of the season in the competition and helping Dinamo cruise to a 4-1 win in front of their supporters.
The result keeps the Croatian side firmly in contention as the league phase approaches its decisive stages.
Bakrar, deployed on the right flank rather than in his usual central role, demonstrated sharp movement and composure to break the deadlock.
Timing his run perfectly, the 25-year-old drifted between Steaua’s two central defenders before meeting a precise cross from Galesic with a well-placed header that left the goalkeeper with no chance. The goal rewarded Dinamo’s energetic start and immediately put the visitors under pressure.
The former New York City forward continued to trouble the Steaua defence with his pace and work rate, contributing both offensively and defensively as Dinamo maintained control of the match.
Although his primary contribution came early, Bakrar remained involved in the build-up play and helped stretch the opposition back line, creating space for teammates to exploit.
Bakrar was withdrawn just after the hour mark, with the outcome already largely decided. By that point, Dinamo had extended their advantage and effectively taken the sting out of the contest.
The Algerian left the pitch having added to an impressive individual campaign, bringing his total to nine goals in all competitions this season, underlining his growing importance within the Zagreb side.
For Dinamo, the emphatic scoreline reflected a collective performance built on intensity and clinical finishing.
The Croatian champions capitalised on their chances and showed little mercy as Steaua struggled to cope with the hosts’ rhythm and movement, particularly in wide areas.
The victory lifts Dinamo Zagreb to 20th place after seven Europa League matchdays, a position that keeps them within reach of their objectives in the competition.
With one round remaining, the club will look to build on this momentum as they aim to secure progression and finish the group phase on a positive note.
As for Bakrar, his adaptability and consistent end product continue to attract attention. Operating effectively out wide while maintaining his scoring touch, the Algerian striker has once again delivered on the European stage, reinforcing his status as one of Dinamo’s key attacking assets this season.
Le buuuut de Monsef Bakrar ce soir avec le Dinamo Zagrebpic.twitter.com/QKYOQL3Rx8
— Chebli Ishaq (@IshaqChebli) January 22, 2026
