Istra 1961 Arrives at Poljud with a Clear Message
Coach Javier Cabello and player Emil Frederiksen previewed Sunday's away match against Hajduk, emphasizing the team's readiness and belief in a positive outcome.
Coach Javier Cabello and player Emil Frederiksen previewed Sunday's away match against Hajduk, emphasizing the team's readiness and belief in a positive outcome.
Istra 1961 will face Hajduk at Poljud on Sunday, August 9, 2026, in a challenging second-round league match. The game kicks off at 9 PM, and ahead of the trip to Split, coach Javier Cabello and player Emil Frederiksen shared the team's ambitions at a press conference held on Friday.
Coach Javier Cabello expressed satisfaction with the past week of preparations and stressed that the team is ready for the test in front of a full stadium. "The training week went well, and I'm pleased with how the team is working. It was a long week, and we gave our all to prepare in the best possible way for Sunday's match," Cabello told Index.hr.
Aware of the opponent's strength, he particularly highlighted the European rhythm of the Split-based club. "Hajduk is one of the best teams in the league, with quality players and a top coaching staff, and their participation in Europe speaks volumes about their strength. The match will be demanding because they play in front of their own fans, but if we want to be competitive and win, we must perform at the highest level," said the Istra 1961 coach.
He also confirmed that all players are available and emphasized the importance of the long-term process, regardless of individual results. "The championship is long. We want to win every match, but the result must not affect our work, whether it's positive or negative. We must maintain our training rhythm and continue what we're doing because the process will ultimately bring results," he added.
Danish midfielder Emil Frederiksen echoed the optimism, viewing the trip to Poljud as the perfect stage to prove themselves. "We know a tough match awaits us, with a great atmosphere in front of a full crowd of Hajduk fans. We're aware of that, but we see this game as an opportunity to show how good a team we are and that we fear no one," Frederiksen said.
He also reflected on the disappointment from the first round, saying it's now in the past. "We were disappointed after the Lokomotiva match because we felt we played well, but that's behind us now. We had a quality week of preparations, everyone is ready, and there's good energy in the squad," explained the Istra player.
Frederiksen concluded that there is respect for the Split club in the dressing room, but also strong self-belief. "We know the opponent's qualities, which is why we prepared seriously all week. On Sunday, we'll see how ready we are, but I have a good feeling, and I believe a successful weekend lies ahead," he concluded.
