HNK Hajduk Split's entry into the UEFA Europa Conference League group stage has reignited the age-old debate: will the White's supporters back eternal rivals Dinamo Zagreb in the Europa League? A street survey in Split revealed deeply divided opinions, ranging from full support for Croatian clubs to a principled refusal. Hajduk will open their European campaign on 15 November at Poljud against Ajax in the Conference League league phase.
The responses from Split citizens reflected the longstanding rivalry. One older fan was categorical. "No, I will not support Dinamo. I have never supported Dinamo and I never will support Dinamo. I won't on principle." he said. On the other hand, others highlighted the national interest. "Of course I will support them, they are two Croatian clubs, but Hajduk lives forever," stated one passerby. Some remained undecided, like the one who said: "Will I support Dinamo? Of course I won't, I will, I won't, I don't know, I'll see."
In Zagreb, the mood was significantly more unified, with most respondents ready to cheer for Hajduk. One Dinamo fan, who introduced himself as a lieutenant in the Croatian Army, gave an emotional answer. "I've been a fan from day one. I follow Dinamo, I go to matches, I cause trouble with the youngsters." he said. Others simplified it: "Why wouldn't we support both? It's decent, if nothing else."
This debate comes at a time when Hajduk is in excellent form. The team leads the HNL table with 16 points from seven rounds, having won their last five matches. The latest triumph was against Slaven Belupo (1-0) last weekend, with the next challenge being an away fixture at Rijeka. This position of strength adds extra weight to the upcoming European adventure, where the Whites will have at least six matches in the league phase. If they manage to finish among the top 24 teams, they will advance to the play-offs. The first-team squad status and schedule can be followed on our standings page, and details of the upcoming European fixtures can be found in fixtures.
Dinamo Zagreb begins their European season this Wednesday, 16 September, away at Hapoel Beer-Sheva in the Europa League. For Hajduk, the focus is first on the domestic front and maintaining their league lead, before turning to Europe in November. With five consecutive wins and team top scorer Marko Šego having netted four goals, optimism at Poljud is high. Finally, after a ten-year drought in European competitions, fans hope the Whites will once again 'light up' Europe, regardless of who they cheer for from the stands along the way.
First reported at Index.hr Sport
