HNK Hajduk Split vs NK Varazdin - HNL

All eyes turn to the home ground on May 3, 2026 as HNK Hajduk Split welcome NK Varazdin in a HNL encounter that promises tension, intrigue and no shortage of subplot. K-League All-Stars v Manchester City: Confirmed line-ups as Maresca’s men face Korean test.

Both HNK Hajduk Split and NK Varazdin will be eager to build momentum when they meet in HNL. The hosts have been imperious, WWWWW in their last five underpinning an elite win rate of 71.43% that marks them out as genuine contenders. The visitors have been picking up results steadily, DDWLW over their last five with a campaign win rate of 57.14%. Where HNK Hajduk Split have built their campaign on solidity, NK Varazdin have often chased flair, and that fundamental difference should make for compelling viewing. Meanwhile, Paige Bueckers struggled to find her rhythm, going 5-for-13 for 15 points in the loss.

Stylistically, this is a compelling matchup. HNK Hajduk Split favour a patient, possession-based approach, whereas NK Varazdin are at their most dangerous when allowed to hit quickly on the counter. They were slightly found out against Amorim's Milan in pre-season, with the press not quite sharp enough - the fourth goal, in particular, came from just one ball over a high-lined defence.

Neither side is short on individuals capable of tilting the balance, and the duel between the two squads' chief creators could prove particularly pivotal. The battle in midfield, where both sides look to control tempo, could prove the decisive arena. So much so that it has motivated them to move for Spain's prize midfielder Rodri after he was named player of the tournament.

With the sides closely matched, the outcome may well hinge on which team takes its chances on the day. A share of the spoils looks the most probable outcome, with neither side holding a decisive edge — a 2-2 draw feels like a fitting result. With positions in the HNL table to defend and momentum to chase, neither side can afford to leave anything in the tank. It is likely City adopt a more proactive pressing system higher up the pitch in order to exert territorial control on opponents.