HNK Hajduk Split faces the decisive second leg of their UEFA Conference League playoff against Rakow Czestochowa tonight. The Croatian side needs a victory in Poland to secure a historic return to a European group stage after a 16-year absence. The first leg at Poljud ended in a thrilling 2:2 draw, with Michele Šego and Dalisson on the scoresheet for Hajduk.
Hajduk carries the advantage of two away goals from the first leg. To secure direct passage to the Conference League group stage, they need a win or a draw with a score higher than 2:2. A loss, or a 2:2 draw, would send the tie to extra time and potentially penalties. Manager Sergije Krešić has a nearly full squad at his disposal, and according to our live data on the squad page, the team is currently without major injury concerns. This match is the final hurdle before a historic European return.
The match in Split was a dramatic affair full of twists. Hajduk took an early lead in the 21st minute through Michele Šego, but Rakow equalized just six minutes later via Mahir Emreli. Dalisson restored the home side's advantage early in the second half, only for Aboubacar Diaby-Fadiga to snatch a 2:2 draw for the visitors in the fifth minute of added time. Hajduk showed attacking threat and character but also defensive vulnerability in the dying moments.
Citing Transfermarkt data, Index.hr reports Rakow's squad value at 32.8 million euros. Hajduk's squad is valued slightly higher at 34.13 million euros. These figures indicate a very evenly matched contest between two clubs of similar resources. For comparison, the other Croatian representative in the playoffs, Rijeka, has an estimated value of 35.20 million euros. All current player statistics and squad data are available on our stats page.
Regardless of tonight's outcome, Hajduk will return to domestic duties in the Croatian First League on Saturday. Their next league opponent is NK Osijek, with the match scheduled for September 12th. The full schedule of upcoming matches, including potential European fixtures, can be found on the fixtures page. Qualifying for Europe after so many years would provide a massive financial and sporting boost for the entire club.
The broadcast from Poland kicks off at 7 PM local time and is available exclusively via the Hajduk Digital TV platform. This will be Hajduk's 12th official match of the season, in which they have so far recorded seven wins, three draws, and one loss.
