Hajduk opens season with 2-0 win over Žilina, Perković warns result may be deceptive

On Thursday evening at Poljud, HNK Hajduk Split secured a 2-0 victory in the first match of the first qualifying round of the Europa League against Slovak side Žilina. Goals came from Roko Brajković in the 22nd minute and new signing Dalisson in the 49th minute. After the game, Armenian Noah coach Sandro Perković appeared on the "Maksanov korner" podcast, praising the team's energy while highlighting the hidden danger of such a result.

What did Perković highlight in his analysis?

Perković noted that Hajduk dominated already in the first 20‑25 minutes, creating five‑six clear chances. "They were lucky not to concede, but that is dangerous because it can flip quickly," he said. He also mentioned Marko Livaja, who entered from the bench in the 86th minute, adding stability to the attack. Coach Gonzalo García, according to Perković, needed to calm the Livaja situation and integrate him fully.

Why is the result "dangerous"?

"2‑0 is a good score, but it is extremely dangerous," Perković stated. He pointed out that Žilina had chances to turn the game around, especially after an unlucky rebound by Maržić that nearly ended up in the net. He also highlighted that Šego failed to score despite a fantastic performance. "When a striker has four‑five good chances and doesn’t score, it always looks negative," he warned.

How does this fit Hajduk's current form?

HNK Hajduk Split currently sits second in the HNL with 68 points, 20 wins, 8 draws and 8 losses from 36 games, and the last five matches show a WDDLL pattern. The club has scored 61 goals and conceded 36, a +25 goal difference. The most recent result was a striking 6‑3 win over Vukovar on 22 May 2026. This Europa League win adds momentum, but the team must avoid complacency and improve chance conversion.

What lies ahead in the second leg?

The return fixture against Žilina is set for 16 July in Slovakia, kickoff at 20:30. Perković believes Hajduk will maintain high pressure and use the first‑leg experience. If the squad focuses on better finishing and keeps defensive discipline, they could strengthen their group position and make a strong impression on the European stage.

Takeaway for fans

Perković concluded that Hajduk is a massive club and no one is above it. "It’s good that the situation calms, that Livaja and García work together on stability," he said. Supporters should enjoy the current form but watch how the team handles upcoming challenges, both in the domestic HNL and the Europa League.