Hajduk Split clinches 2-0 win over Pafos in Europa qualifier

On July 23, 2026, Hajduk Split recorded a 2‑0 victory against Pafos at Poljud in the second‑round Europa League qualifier. Dario Melnjak opened the scoring in the 56th minute, and Michele Sego doubled the lead six minutes later. Currently second in the HNL with 68 points, 20 wins, 8 draws and 8 losses from 36 games, this win is a vital step in the title chase.

What happened on the pitch?

Both sides contested midfield early on, but neither could break through. It was only in the second half that Michele Sego, from the edge of the box, struck a right‑footed shot that found the net, giving Hajduk the lead. Five minutes after, Dario Melnjak used his left foot to fire a clean shot from the centre of the box, beating the Pafos defence. Both goals were assisted by Mathieu Acapandié, who proved decisive in attack.

Why does this win matter for Hajduk?

The victory not only secured progression in the Europa League, but also reinforced Hajduk's league position. The club sits 18 points behind Dinamo Zagreb, yet with 61 goals scored and 36 conceded, a +25 goal difference shows an attacking side in form. Moreover, the last result – a 6‑3 win over Vukovar on May 22 – demonstrates the team's scoring ability, despite mixed outcomes in the last five matches (WDDLL).

What lies ahead?

Given the current shape, Hajduk will likely keep an aggressive attacking approach, and the manager will probably retain Melnjak and Sego in the starting eleven. The next challenge is a home clash against Lokomotiva, where three points are at stake. If the team maintains this form, title chances become realistic, though the gap with Dinamo remains large. Fans will hope the defence tightens, as the number of goals conceded (36) still offers room for improvement. Poljud will be packed, and the atmosphere will surely lift the side further.

Who are the key players and what next?

Michele Sego and Dario Melnjak stood out as attackers, while Alberto del Moral received a yellow card for a foul, and Adam Huram replaced Melnjak in the second half. Pafos also had opportunities, but yellow cards for Alexandre Brito and Nicholas Ioannou highlighted discipline issues. Hajduk will likely keep its core players for upcoming fixtures, and the manager may consider defensive reinforcements to reduce the goals conceded.

Bottom line

The 2‑0 win over Pafos showed that Hajduk Split possesses all the ingredients for progress in the Europa League and domestic competition. With a solid attack and defensive improvements, the club can continue the title fight and perhaps close the gap with Dinamo in the coming rounds.