HNK Hajduk Split advanced to the round of 16 of the Croatian Football Cup with a 0:2 away win against fourth-tier side Vardarac in Baranja. The match marked the return of goalkeeper Dante Stipica after over two years, with goals from Dennis Hadžikadunić and debutant Peter Nnaemeka Ugwuodo securing the progression for the Split side.
The match was played at the new V Arena stadium, which opened in August 2025. The project, worth more than 7 million euros and jointly financed by the Government of the Republic of Croatia and the Government of Hungary, meets UEFA B licensing standards. The opponent, Vardarac, a club from a small Baranja town, has risen from regional competitions to the Third NL East. Although the hosts showed spirit, Hajduk's quality told. "The winning goals were scored by Dennis Hadžikadunić (16') and Peter Nnaemeka Ugwuodo (90+3')," Hadžikadunić told reporters.
The biggest contribution to the victory came from 35-year-old goalkeeper Dante Stipica. In his first official appearance in over two years, Stipica kept a clean sheet and received the highest rating (3.7) in a fan poll for man of the match. He last played on May 25, 2024, for Ruch Chorzów in a 2:0 win against Cracovia in the Polish Ekstraklasa. His return to the pitch was one of the main stories of the evening. Coach Gonzalo Garcije will likely be pleased to have the experienced goalkeeper available, especially with a busy schedule that includes the league.
In the fan poll, besides Stipica, high ratings (above 3) were also given to scorer Dennis Hadžikadunić, debutant Peter Nnaemeka Ugwuodo, and Dalisson. "The 20-year-old Nigerian forward Ugwuodo confirmed the victory for the Split side on his debut for the first team," Ugwuodo noted. On the other hand, the lowest rating (2.4) was given to winger-forward Abdoulie Bamba Sanyang. The Cup victory comes at a good time for a team currently sitting first in the HNL table with 13 points from six games, with a record of 4 wins, 1 draw, and 1 loss. Also, Hajduk has scored 15 goals, conceded 5, for a +10 goal difference. Their recent league form is WWWWD.
After this Cup success, the focus returns to the HNL. The next challenge is already on Wednesday, September 12, 2026, when Hajduk hosts NK Slaven Belupo at Poljud. Slaven Belupo is currently 8th in the table. It will be an opportunity to maintain their league leadership. The win against Vardarac secured a place in the Cup's last 16, and now the task is to continue the run in the championship as well.
