Europa League

Žilina

16 Jul 2026 19:30

Hajduk Split

Prediction:

Hajduk Split to win 2.20

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ŽilinaDraw Hajduk Split

Žilina vs Hajduk Split Predictions, Picks & Odds – 16/07/2026

Europa League · 1st Qualifying Round

Our prediction

X2: Double Chance Draw or Hajduk Split

2.20 on Betano · Confidence Medium

Odds recorded on 16 Jul 2026 at 08:02 · Odds are subject to change

Žilina vs Hajduk Split Preview

Žilina head into this Europa League first qualifying round second leg at Štadión Pod Dubňom with significant concerns. Their pre-season has been poor: four friendlies yielded three draws and a defeat, with no victories to build confidence. Manager Pavol Stano is expected to deploy a 3-4-3 formation, while summer signing Dávid Šipoš competes for the goalkeeper spot. The home crowd could prove vital, but momentum is clearly lacking.

Hajduk Split arrive in Slovakia in far sharper condition. Gonzalo Garcia’s side won all three pre-season friendlies without conceding a single goal, a run that has boosted squad chemistry heading into competitive action. New arrivals Alec Van Hoorenbeeck, Mathieu Acapandie, Alberto del Moral, and Dalisson could feature, while the return of Marko Livaja adds firepower. Hajduk are desperate to finally break through qualifying rounds after repeated Conference League exits.

Hajduk Split’s pre-season record stands out here. Three friendly wins with zero goals conceded signals a squad that has gelled quickly under Gonzalo Garcia, and the arrival of fresh talent like Van Hoorenbeeck and Acapandie adds depth. Žilina, by contrast, failed to win any of their four warm-up fixtures, a worrying sign heading into competitive action.

The Draw or Away pick at 2.20 reflects Hajduk’s superior preparation and their burning desire to avenge that 2009 elimination. Marko Livaja’s return to the squad gives them a proven match-winner, even if he starts from the bench. Žilina’s 3-4-3 shape could leave gaps that Hajduk’s attackers will look to exploit on the counter.

Historical context favours Žilina on paper, given their aggregate victory seventeen years ago, but modern form carries more weight. Hajduk have not reached a UEFA group stage since 2010-11, fuelling genuine motivation to break through. Backing X2 accounts for both a potential draw and an outright Hajduk win, offering solid coverage in what should be a tight contest.

Trends to Know about Žilina vs Hajduk Split

• Hajduk won all three pre-season friendlies
• Žilina winless in four summer matches
• Hajduk conceded zero pre-season goals

Both lineups carry a speculated tag here, extrapolated from first-leg data, so treat the tactical picture as a working hypothesis rather than confirmed fact. That said, Žilina’s 3-4-3 sets up an aggressive, wing-heavy structure designed to press high and exploit the flanks against Hajduk Split’s 4-2-3-1.

Hajduk’s double pivot anchors a shape built to control midfield transitions, with Marko Livaja as the focal point in attack. For Žilina, Marko Roginic operating in the front three will be central to whether the hosts can unsettle a Croatian side with clear European pedigree.

How to Watch Žilina vs Hajduk Split Match?

What time is Žilina vs Hajduk Split?

Žilina vs Hajduk Split kicks off on 16 July 2026 at 19:30 local time at Štadión Pod Dubňom.

Where is Žilina vs Hajduk Split being played?

This match takes place at Štadión Pod Dubňom, Žilina’s home ground in Slovakia.

How Can I Watch Žilina vs Hajduk Split on TV and Live Stream?

Check local listings for Žilina vs Hajduk Split broadcast details, as coverage varies by region.