Hajduk and Istra 1961 draw 2-2 at Poljud amid fan protests

Hajduk Split and Istra 1961 played to a 2-2 draw at Poljud in the second round of the SuperSport HNL. Hajduk took an early lead in the 15th minute through a header by Rokas Pukštas, but Istra equalized via Emil Frederiksen in the 42nd minute. Marko Livaja restored Hajduk's lead in the 84th minute, but Dukan Ahmeti scored for Istra in the 95th minute to secure a point for the visitors.

The match was marked by significant tension both on and off the pitch. Hajduk supporters, known as Torcida, displayed banners referencing Operation Storm and criticized the club's management, chanting “Uprava odlazi” (Management out). Hajduk president Ivan Bilić addressed the dissatisfaction, stating the club is working to strengthen the squad and remains focused on their upcoming European qualifying match against Žalgiris.

Controversy surrounded the officiating. Istra 1961 expressed dissatisfaction on social media regarding several decisions, including a non-call on a potential penalty involving Hamza Jaganjac and Alec van Hoorenbeeck. While refereeing expert Tomislav Kujundžić Lujan defended Mateo Erceg's performance, the visitors remained critical of the lack of intervention from VAR in key moments.