Hajduk and Dinamo prepare for high-stakes HNL derby at Poljud

The upcoming Croatian football derby between Hajduk Split and Dinamo Zagreb at Poljud Stadium is the central focus of the domestic sports landscape. Both clubs are currently tied at the top of the HNL with 16 points. Hajduk coach Gonzalo García has expressed a strong desire to win, noting that while the pressure is high, the team is motivated. He also commented on the difficulty of facing Dinamo compared to other opponents.

Dinamo Zagreb enters the match facing tactical adjustments due to the suspension of captain and midfielder Josip Mišić. Coach Mario Kovačević is expected to test Kiril Kravcov in the defensive midfield role, a move that will shift Dinamo’s playing style from a tempo-dictating regisatra approach to a more direct, long-ball strategy.

In other domestic football news, Osijek prepares to host Istra 1961 at the Opus Arena, aiming to break a three-year winless streak against the visitors. Additionally, the sports weekend in Croatia features various matches across different leagues and disciplines.