HNK Hajduk Split face Pafos in the Europa League second qualifying round on 23 July 2026 with a full Poljud expected. Ardian Kozniku, Hajduk Split legend and 1998 World Cup bronze medallist, previews the clash and picks Marko Livaja as the man to deliver. Currently 2nd in the HNL with 68 points from 36 games, Hajduk aim for a no-nonsense win.

What to expect vs Pafos?

Pafos is not a team to underestimate, Kozniku warned. While Hajduk created fine chances at Žilina in the first leg, the Cypriot side boasts experience and quality. 'Every opponent has a different style and motivation. Pafos will play differently and it won’t be easy' , he told Net.hr. He stresses Hajduk must impose their rhythm from the first minute and play aggressively in front of their home crowd.

Hajduk’s last five games read one win, two draws and two losses (WDDLL). Their most recent outing ended 6-3 over Vukovar on 22 May 2026. Kozniku recalls Hajduk at Poljud must always play ‘Hajduk-style’-no waiting for mistakes. 'With 25,000 to 30,000 fans there’s no room for calculation. Hajduk must go full throttle from minute one' , he said.

Why Marko Livaja matters

Kozniku singles out captain Marko Livaja as the man who can settle the tie. 'He’s the player who, even if he plays little, lifts everything. I’d love Livaja to score from Trieste' , he added. Livaja has been in form lately, and Hajduk need him firing against Pafos to secure a place in the next Europa League round.

So far this season Hajduk have scored 61 and conceded 36, a +25 goal difference. They sit 18 points behind league leaders Dinamo Zagreb. Kozniku believes the Whites will show character in front of their fans and secure the win.