Hajduk Split kick off their 2026-27 Europa League qualifying campaign on Thursday night as they take on Zilina at Stadion Poljud in the first leg of their tie. Having not faced each other since 2009, when Zilina prevailed 2-1 on aggregate, both teams are eager to make their mark in this early stage of the competition.
This matchup carries real importance in the context of European football: Hajduk Split aims to re-establish itself after years away from major UEFA competitions, while Zilina seeks to make history by reaching the Europa League group stage for the first time. As reported by Soccer News, Hajduk Split are the clear favourites heading into the tie.
Hajduk Split’s Quest for European Redemption
Hajduk Split are keen to rediscover their place among Europe’s elite after a long absence. Once quarter-finalists in the Champions League during the 1994-95 season, they have not participated in a European league phase since their time in the Europa League group stage in 2010-11. The team faced disappointment in recent years, bowing out in the third qualifying round of the Conference League three times consecutively.
Domestically, Hajduk was unable to pose a challenge to Dinamo Zagreb, finishing second and 18 points behind the champions last term. However, their pre-season performances have been promising, with three wins out of three friendlies, all achieved without conceding a goal. The home crowd at Poljud is expected to provide a real advantage as they look to secure a lead ahead of the second leg in Slovakia.
Zilina: Looking for Upset
Zilina travel to Croatia with aspirations of making progress in UEFA competitions, eyeing qualification for the Europa League, a feat they’ve yet to achieve despite their seven Slovak league titles. After lifting the Slovak Cup last season, their entry into this competition marks a highlight for the club, which finished fourth in the domestic league.
However, Zilina’s pre-season preparations have been far from ideal, failing to register a win in four matches, culminating in a disappointing draw against FK Pardubice. The attacking trio of Michal Fasko, Marko Roginic, and Samuel Datko, who combined for 37 goals last season, will be crucial in their quest to secure a favourable result.
Team News: Key Absences and New Arrivals
Hajduk Split will miss Abdoulie Sanyang due to suspension, but several promising new signings, including Alec Van Hoorenbeeck and Mathieu Acapandie, are set to debut in this crucial match. Michele Sego is anticipated to lead the attack alongside Roko Brajkovic and veteran Marko Livaja.
Zilina, meanwhile, must decide their starting goalkeeper between the summer recruit David Sipos and Jakub Badzgon. Despite their mixed results, the attacking prowess demonstrated by their forward line could pose a threat to Hajduk’s ambitions.
The SportiveNews view
For Hajduk Split, a positive result at home is essential to set themselves up for the second leg. With a solid pre-season behind them and the familiarity of their home ground, they are well-positioned to make a statement. While Zilina must not be underestimated due to their attacking capabilities, the Croatian side looks ready to claim an advantage in this tie.
Frequently asked questions
What is at stake for Hajduk Split in this tie?
Hajduk Split seeks to end a prolonged absence from major UEFA competitions and re-establish themselves as a competitive force in Europe, aiming for a strong start in their Europa League qualifying campaign.
How has Zilina prepared for this match?
Zilina enters the fixture without a pre-season victory and will look to turn around their poor form, hoping their attacking trio can challenge Hajduk Split effectively.
Source: Based on reporting from Soccer News. SportiveNews rewrote and analysed the story independently for football readers.
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