Rangers defender Borna Barisic believes Aberdeen are weaker this season and has tipped Rijeka to beat them should the sides meet again in the Europa League.
Derek McInnes’ side must first dispose of Chikhura Sachkhere, with whom they drew 1-1 in Georgia last week.
They meet again on Thursday at Pittodrie and if Aberdeen progress, they will face Rijeka in the Europa League third qualifying round.
The Dons won 5-2 on aggregate against the Croats in 2015 but Barisic believes his countrymen would emerge victorious this time around.
The Rangers left-back said: "I think Aberdeen were better last season. They knocked us out of both cups so we don't have a good relationship with them.
"They are a really solid team who play aggressive football, but a good number of their players left during the summer.
"Of course Rijeka has a chance - in fact I would think they have a small advantage when it comes to qualifying.
"Aberdeen have been weakened. I would say they have lost around four players who were very important to them.
"So it's difficult to say what level they are at now until they start playing competitive matches in the league."
Aberdeen lost stars such as captain Graeme Shinnie and Gary Mackay-Steven but signed eight first-team squad players – including Craig Bryson.
