ZIRA – HAJDUK 1:1 (Konate 31’/Kalik 68′)
Zira: Tiago Silva – Alijev, Mustinzi (Acka 87′), Ruan, Djibrilla – Guima (Ibrahimli 79′), Konate (Nuryjev 39′ – Batibie 79′), Gomis – Papunashvili, Volkov (Muradov 79′), Martins JuniorHajduk: Ivušić – Sigur (Karačić 70′), Šarlija, Skelin, Hrgović – Capan (Pajaziti 46′), Kalik (Pukštas 85′), Krovinović – Skoko (Šego 70′), Livaja, Brajković (Benrahou 70′)
In the first leg of the second qualifying round of the UEFA Conference League, Zira and Hajduk parted ways in Baku with a 1-1 draw. After the home team took the lead through Brahim Konaté’s goal in the 31st minute and Anthony Kalik equalized for Hajduk in the second half, the result leaves the confrontation open ahead of the return leg in Split. Hajduk took the initiative during the second half, but neither team ultimately converted chances into a victory.
For Hajduk to advance to the next round of the Conference League, a victory in the return match at Poljud in front of their home fans is essential. A goalless draw would send Zira through thanks to their away goal, while a 1-1 draw would lead to extra time and possibly penalties. Any draw with two or more goals scored by both sides (e.g., 2-2, 3-3) would see Zira advance due to the away goals rule, if such rule applies at this stage according to the latest UEFA regulations. Hajduk must stay exceptionally focused, as conceding a goal at home would drastically reduce their chances of progressing.
Additionally, the team needs to enter the field with maximum concentration and tactical discipline, demonstrate greater precision in finishing chances—which was a noticeable problem in the first leg—and neutralize Zira’s counterattacks, as the Azerbaijani side showed speed and directness whenever they regained possession.
If Zira eliminates Hajduk, it would mark the end of their European campaign for this season, which would be a disappointment for the club’s management, fans, and current squad. The club would lose out on European revenues and opportunities for player exposure on a bigger stage. There would be no alternative continental competition to fall back on, as elimination from the Conference League means no European challenges until next season. This scenario would raise important questions about the club’s strategy, squad policy, and possible changes within the team and coaching staff.
Regarding the coach and players, Gonzalo Garcia showed courage by introducing several young players and fresh ideas into the starting eleven. His attacking approach was especially evident in the second half, when Hajduk took control of the game and created more serious scoring opportunities. However, some tactical decisions, such as later substitutions and defensive risks, leave room for discussion on the optimal management of the team in high-stakes European matches.
From the players’ perspective, captain Livaja failed to capitalize on several half-chances, while midfielders Kalik and Hrgović showed improvement in cooperation and energy. The defense, led by goalkeeper Ivušić, had some weaknesses but stabilized towards the end of the match. Kalik’s goal was a highlight, and young players like Skoko and Brajković showed potential but still lack international experience.
With the support of the fans at Poljud, Hajduk has realistic chances to secure progression, and the final result will provide answers about the character, quality, and ceiling of this team and its coach in a season that is only just beginning.
It was a tough match; we started nervously, and Zira punished us with a goal. We could have done better, and in the second half, we truly showed that. I am proud of how we came back into the game in the second half. They were dangerous, just as I expected. They have been together for many years, and if the opponent is not precise, that can be very dangerous. They are a quality and, above all, well-organized team – Gonzalo Garcia, Hajduk Head Coach
I am glad that I scored a goal in a tough away game, but the most important thing is that we stayed in the fight ahead of the return match in Split. Let’s give our best in front of our fans – Anthony Kalik, equalizer scorer
We focus more on our own tasks and tactics than on whom we are playing against. European matches are always evenly matched, but the key is in our approach – Dario Melnjak, the captain
