Lokomotiva Zagreb juniors celebrated the Croatian championship title in the 2024/25 season, confirming their dominance throughout the entire First Croatian National League junior competition. The trophy and medals were presented to the young Lokomotiva by Croatian U-19 coach Siniša Oreščanin and Croatian National Football League youth competition commissioner and grassroots manager Antonio Šimunović, further emphasizing the importance of this success for the club and Croatian youth football.
Key season highlights
Lokomotiva secured the title with an impressive performance, winning 24 matches, drawing five, and losing only two, with a goal difference of 56:20 and a total of 56 points, which put them ahead of Hajduk, Dinamo, and Gorica. In the direct duel for the title, Lokomotiva convincingly defeated Hajduk 3:0 at Poljud, practically securing first place.
Lokomotiva was the most efficient team in the league, averaging over 2.3 goals per game, and their defense was among the strongest in the competition. Several young talents stood out during the season, and coach Nikica Jelavić, who took over the senior team after the junior title, emphasized teamwork, work ethic, and discipline as the keys to success.
Final standings of the First HNL Juniors 2024/25.
| POSITION | CLUB | GAMES | WON | DRAW | LOST | GOAL DIFFERENCE | POINTS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. | Lokomotiva (Zagreb) | 24 | 17 | 5 | 2 | 56:20 | 56 |
| 2. | Hajduk (Split) | 24 | 16 | 3 | 5 | 60:18 | 51 |
| 3. | Dinamo (Zagreb) | 24 | 14 | 8 | 2 | 61:23 | 50 |
| 4. | Gorica | 23 | 12 | 7 | 4 | 49:22 | 43 |
Celebration and significance of the title
The title celebration was held at the stadium in Velika Gorica, attended by numerous fans, parents, and club management. This title confirms Lokomotiva as one of the most crucial development centers for young players in Croatia, and many members of this generation are already on the radar of top-flight clubs.
The success of the juniors further emphasized the stability of Lokomotive in all age categories, and coach Jelavić was promoted to manager of the first team after winning the title, a rare occurrence in domestic football.
This generation has shown exceptional character, work ethic and community. I’m proud of all the players and staff. This title is a reward for all the effort and sacrifice throughout the season – emphasized coach Nikica Jelavić
Lokomotiva juniors deservedly won the title of Croatian champion, demonstrating quality, stability, and perspective. This success is further proof that the club from Zagreb remains a hotbed of talent and a crucial factor in the development of Croatian football.
