The referee commission of the Croatian Football Federation has confirmed the correctness of the penalty awarded to HNK Hajduk Split in their match against Rudeš. The decision was made after reviewing the incident in the 26th minute of the 6th round of the HNL, with a report on the matter published by 24sata Sport this week.
Led by Bertrand Layec, the commission gave its full backing to the on-field referee Antonio Škobić and the VAR team headed by Igor Pajač. The AVAR referee was Goran Pataki. Layec explained that the foul occurred "after a dribble in the opposing penalty area." The foul was committed by Rudeš player number 44 on Hajduk player number 23, leading to the penalty award.
The key moment unfolded in the away penalty area. Hajduk's attacker wearing number 23 attempted to dribble past an opponent. Rudeš player number 44 made contact that on-field referee Škobić judged to be a foul. The VAR room reviewed the footage, and chief VAR referee Igor Pajač confirmed there was no clear and obvious error. After receiving confirmation, referee Škobić pointed to the spot.
This decision further strengthened Hajduk's position in the match. The Split-based club currently leads the HNL table with 13 points from six games played. Their goal ratio is impressive with 15 scored and only 5 conceded, giving them a +10 goal difference. Their last five league matches have ended without defeat, with a recent form reading WWWWD.
The review process involved several steps. The on-field referee made the initial call. Then, the VAR team in the booth examined the available footage from multiple angles. After communication between the referee and the VAR booth, the decision was confirmed. The final seal was put by the HNS Referee Commission, which officially declared the entire procedure to be correct.
Such reviews are a standard part of modern football and ensure greater accuracy in important moments. For Hajduk fans, this news comes at a time when the club is in very good form. They currently hold first place on the HNL standings table.
The penalty confirmation occurred in a match that is part of an excellent start to the season for the Whites. With 4 wins, 1 draw, and just 1 loss, Hajduk has laid the groundwork for a serious title challenge. Their defense is solid and their attack productive.
Their next challenge awaits on September 12, 2026, at Poljud. Hajduk will then host NK Slaven Belupo, who are currently in 8th place in the table. The detailed schedule of all upcoming matches is available on the fixtures page. The match against Slaven Belupo will be an opportunity for Hajduk to extend their run of good results and strengthen their leading position. The squad lineup for that match can be seen on the squad page.
