HNK Hajduk Split host Ajax today at 18:45 at Stadion Poljud in their first UEFA Conference League group stage match. This marks the club's return to European autumn competition for the first time since 2010, ending a 16-year absence from the group stages of continental football. The match is in Group B, which also includes French side Lille and Norwegian side Molde.
Manager Gonzalo Garcia expressed confidence in his squad during the pre-match press conference. "We are Hajduk, we have our identity, we want to play our football. I have complete trust in the players." Garcia said. Player Marko Livaja echoed the sentiment, stating this is a big day for the club and its fans, and that the team will fight for a good result.
The European return comes on the back of strong domestic form. Hajduk beat rivals Dinamo Zagreb 2-1 at Poljud on Saturday to move top of the HNL with 19 points from nine matches. In that run of nine games, Hajduk scored 18 goals, the highest tally in the league. Check the current standings and upcoming fixtures.
Historical context
This is the fifth official meeting between the two clubs. The first was in the 1993 Cup Winners' Cup. Hajduk have never lost to Ajax in matches played in Split, indicating a degree of home tradition. Across the four previous meetings, Hajduk have recorded two wins and two draws.
Analyst Samir Toplak believes Hajduk can enjoy this challenge without major pressure. "Hajduk will enjoy a huge opponent because Ajax is a world giant and can enjoy it after this victory." Toplak stated to Direktno.hr. He added that the key will be for Hajduk to play their typical attacking football and leverage the support of the home crowd.
What's next
Following this match, Hajduk return to league action on Friday against second-placed Varazdin at Poljud. That will be a key test for maintaining their lead in the HNL. The match against Ajax will be broadcast on Arena Sport 1. Hajduk's next European fixture will be an away trip to Lille in two weeks.
First reported at Index.hr Sport
