HNK Hajduk Split organized a team-building event for players and staff at the White Salon of Poljud stadium ahead of the crucial match against Rakow. The gathering took place on Sunday evening after training, aiming to strengthen squad unity before the decisive European clash in Poland. The report was published by Index.hr Sport.
The team entered this week with great confidence following a convincing 4-0 league win against Osijek. That victory gave Hajduk seven points from four matches, currently placing them fourth in the HNL table. Their goal difference stands at nine scored and five conceded. Dinamo Zagreb leads the league with a two-point advantage.
Why is team building important before a European match?
The club decided to organize an informal gathering to allow players and coaching staff to relax and bond further before the big challenge. The event included dinner and music in the White Salon, a space within the Poljud stadium. Everyone departed by 10 PM, ensuring sufficient rest time before travel.
Musician Vedran Roguljić was one of the participants and shared a photo with Dario Melnjak and coach Gonzalo Garcia. "Dinner, a little music, good mood, and togetherness ahead of an important match," Roguljić said, thanking them for the invitation. This approach shows the management cares about psychological preparation alongside physical readiness.
What is the HNL situation before the European fixture?
Hajduk returns to European action with good form from the domestic league. After four matches played, the team has recorded two wins, one draw, and one loss. The team's top scorer this season is Marko Livaja with three goals. The next home league task will be against NK Lokomotiva Zagreb on August 31st, which you can follow on our fixtures page.
This league position provides additional confidence to a team facing a historic opportunity. Qualifying for the Europa Conference League group stage would be the first in 16 years. The first leg in Split ended in a 2-2 draw, leaving everything open for the return in Czestochowa.
Who will referee the decisive match in Poland?
The match on Thursday evening will be officiated by referee Aliyar Aghayev from Azerbaijan. He will be assisted by linesmen Zeynal Zeynalov and Akif Amirali. The fourth official will be Kamal Umudlu. The Video Assistant Referee (VAR) will be overseen by Peter Bankes from England, assisted by Ingilab Mammadov, also from Azerbaijan. This refereeing team adds an extra layer of assurance for the proper conduct of the match.
For Hajduk, this is the ultimate test of the season. A win or a favorable result in Poland would open the doors to the group stage and significant financial and sporting success. The current situation on the standings page shows the team is in a good rhythm and ready for this challenge. All details about the lineup and players are available on our squad page.
What to expect after the Rakow match?
Regardless of the outcome in Europe, Hajduk must quickly switch focus back to the domestic championship. Already on Saturday, they face an important home match against Lokomotiva. That is an opportunity to maintain positive momentum and pressure the leading Dinamo. The team has the quality, and Livaja's scoring instinct will be key in both competitions.
This team-building event was another step in building a strong collective. Now it's up to the players to prove on the pitch that this connection has resulted in better play. The journey to Poland begins with a clear goal and a united team.
