Hajduk Split
Žilina
>Hajduk Split vs Žilina Predictions, Picks & Odds – 09/07/2026
Europa League · 1st Qualifying RoundHajduk Split vs Žilina Preview
Hajduk Split open their Europa League qualifying campaign in superb shape under Gonzalo García. The Croatian side have won three straight matches without conceding, capped by a dominant 4-0 demolition of Shkendija followed by disciplined 1-0 victories over LNZ and Celje. That defensive solidity, averaging under a goal conceded per game across their last five outings, makes Stadion Poljud a daunting venue for any visiting side in European competition.
Žilina arrive in Split on the back of a frustrating run, winless in their last four competitive fixtures with three draws and a defeat. A 2-2 stalemate against Pardubice and a goalless draw with Odra Opole highlight their struggle to convert possession into results. Pavol Stano's men did lift the Slovak Cup with a 3-1 final victory over Košice in May, but that domestic silverware masks genuine concerns about their ability to compete away from home on the continental stage.
Hajduk Split's home win at 1.47 stands as the primary selection here. Three consecutive clean sheets and a 4-0 demolition of Shkendija illustrate the defensive solidity and attacking punch García's side carry into this tie. Stadion Poljud on a European night amplifies that advantage considerably.
Žilina's winless run of four matches, yielding three draws and a defeat, makes them vulnerable travellers. Their Slovak Cup triumph over Košice showed character, but cup form and continental consistency are different beasts. Pavol Stano's men managed just two goals across their last three outings, a concerning return heading into hostile territory.
The under 2.5 goals market at N/A offers secondary value. Hajduk's recent wins have been tight, grinding affairs, with two of their last three finishing 1-0. Žilina's disciplined midfield structure could keep this competitive early on, but a single Hajduk goal may prove sufficient. Odds correct at time of publication.
Trends to Know about Hajduk Split vs Žilina
- Three consecutive Hajduk clean sheets boost defence
- Žilina winless in last four matches
- Hajduk averaging 2.6 goals per game
Form & Statistics: Hajduk Split vs Žilina
Hajduk Split
Season statistics
Žilina
Season statistics
Lineups: Hajduk Split vs Žilina
Hajduk Split
Starters
- 1 Ivusic
- 2 Hrgovic
- 3 Maresic
- 4 Grabic
- 5 Hodak
- 6 Pajaziti
- 7 Guillamón
- 8 Guram
- 9 Almena
- 10 Brajkovic
- 11 Šego
Absent
- Marko Livaja (Suspended by the club for disciplinary reasons.)
Žilina
Starters
- 1 Svaček
- 2 Bari
- 3 Minarik
- 4 Kasha
- 5 Svoboda
- 6 Florea
- 7 Bzdyl
- 8 Káčer
- 9 Santo
- 10 Faško
- 11 Juliš
Low confidence
Both lineups carry a speculated tag, drawn from a single source four days before kickoff, so treat the tactical picture as provisional. That said, the expected 4-2-3-1 versus 4-4-2 framing sets up a classic midfield battle, with Hajduk's double pivot looking to control the tempo against Žilina's flatter, more direct shape.
Guillamón figures as the organisational anchor in Hajduk's midfield, while Káčer will be central to Žilina's ability to connect lines and transition quickly. Given the low confidence in both selections, any late changes to either XI should be monitored closely before kickoff.
Hajduk Split vs Žilina: Head-to-Head
Average statistics (recent meetings)
How to Watch Hajduk Split vs Žilina Match?
What time is Hajduk Split vs Žilina?
This Europa League first qualifying round clash kicks off at Stadion Poljud on July 9, 2026, at 19:00 local time.
Where is Hajduk Split vs Žilina being played?
This match will be played at Stadion Poljud, the home ground of Hajduk Split in Croatia.
How Can I Watch Hajduk Split vs Žilina on TV and Live Stream?
Check local listings for Europa League broadcast coverage of Hajduk Split vs Žilina in your region.