Hajduk Responds After Whistles at Poljud
The Split club issued a statement ahead of the return leg against Žalgiris in the Conference League, where they defend a commanding 5:2 lead from the first match in Vilnius.
The Split club issued a statement ahead of the return leg against Žalgiris in the Conference League, where they defend a commanding 5:2 lead from the first match in Vilnius.
Hajduk addressed their fans on social media on Tuesday, sending a clear message following the disappointing draw with Istra 1961 and the whistles heard at Poljud on Sunday evening. The club has shifted its focus to the upcoming European challenge, the return leg of the Conference League third qualifying round against Lithuanian side Žalgiris.
"A new match, a better approach, the same goal. On Thursday, we have the chance to show our true face on the pitch and wash away the bitter taste of last night's finale. See you at Poljud, with loud and strong support from the faithful only for the Whites," Hajduk announced.
The Whites took the lead twice against Istra but failed to secure their first league win of the season. Rokas Pukštas put the hosts ahead in the 16th minute, but Emil Frederiksen equalized in the 42nd. It seemed Marko Livaja had secured three points with his goal in the 84th minute, but Dukan Ahmeti scored in the fifth minute of stoppage time to make it 2:2.
That outcome sparked strong reactions from the stands, with whistles and discontent making it clear that the fans were not satisfied. Hajduk now finds itself in a situation where, just days later, they must reset the atmosphere and turn their attention to a match that could secure a spot in the Conference League play-offs.
The Split side hosts Žalgiris at Poljud on Thursday with a three-goal advantage from the first leg. In Vilnius, Hajduk celebrated a convincing 5:2 victory, with goals from Michele Šego (5', 44'), Adrion Pajaziti (56'), Dalisson (73'), and Rokas Pukštas (75'). Petković (35') and Capan (86') scored for the Lithuanian club.
The Whites will advance with a win, a draw, or even a loss by up to two goals. If Žalgiris leads by exactly three goals after 90 minutes, extra time will be played, followed by penalties if necessary.
If Hajduk advances, only one obstacle will remain before the Conference League league phase. Their opponent in the play-offs will be the winner of the tie between Poland's Raków Częstochowa and Sweden's Hammarby, whose first leg ended goalless.
The club's message is therefore unequivocal: leave the bitter taste of Sunday's finale behind and show the team's true face on the pitch. Poljud will once again be the stage on Thursday, where the stakes are not just league points but a European autumn within reach.