Hajduk Split - AFC Ajax: European football returns to Poljud
Hajduk Split and AFC Ajax will meet on Thursday, October 15, 2026, at 18:45 at Poljud Stadium in Split. The match opens the league phase of the Conference League in the 2026/2027 season and gives the home side an opportunity to test themselves against one of the most famous Dutch clubs in front of their own supporters. For Ajax, this marks the beginning of a European campaign in a competition they have not yet won, while Hajduk want to prove that they can carry their success in qualifying into matches against stronger opponents.
The encounter carries additional historical significance. Hajduk and Ajax played against each other in European competitions during the 1990s, including the quarter-finals of the Champions League in 1995. On that occasion, the Split team held Ajax to a goalless draw at Poljud against a generation that went on to win the European title that same season. More than three decades later, the clubs are once again facing each other in a competitive match.
Poljud will welcome a Dutch side that, under Míchel Sánchez, is seeking to develop attacking football with an emphasis on possession and control of the game. Hajduk, coached by Gonzalo Garcia, enter the encounter after a demanding qualifying campaign and inconsistent results in the domestic championship. The home side's ability to withstand Ajax's pressure while exploiting the space behind the visitors' defence will be among the most interesting aspects of the match.
Interest in tickets is further heightened by the fact that this is Hajduk's first league-phase match in front of the Split crowd. It is worth securing tickets in good time, particularly because of the special purchasing rules and the limited number of available seats.
What does the first round of the Conference League bring?
The league phase of the Conference League brings together 36 clubs, each playing six matches against different opponents. Every team has three home and three away fixtures, and all participants are ranked in a single league table. The top eight clubs at the end of the league phase advance directly to the round of 16. Teams finishing from ninth to 24th place continue in the knockout phase play-offs, while the bottom twelve end their European season.
Because of this format, points earned in the opening match can play an important role in the later battle for qualification. Hajduk face a difficult task against Ajax, but a victory over an opponent from the highest seeding pot would provide a significant early advantage. Ajax, on the other hand, want to avoid finding themselves in a position where they must recover lost points immediately after their trip to Split.
The draw has given Hajduk six different opponents. After Ajax, away matches follow against Swiss side Thun and Lincoln Red Imps from Gibraltar. Belgian club Sint-Truidense and Danish side Nordsjælland then visit Poljud, while the final match of the league phase is played away against Denmark's Midtjylland.
Ajax have a different schedule but an equally demanding series of opponents. Following the trip to Split, Atalanta visit Amsterdam, after which the Dutch club travel to Midtjylland. They will subsequently host Thun, travel to Sint-Truidense and finish the league phase with a home match against Getafe.
Given the schedule, the result at Poljud could influence both teams' tactical approaches in the following rounds. For Hajduk, earning points against Ajax would open up the possibility of targeting a high position in later matches against theoretically more manageable opponents. Ajax, who were among the highest-ranked clubs in the draw, aim to compete for direct qualification to the round of 16.
Hajduk's form: successful qualification and challenges in the league
Hajduk secured European football in the autumn by progressing through qualification, with the tie against Polish side RKS Raków standing out in particular. After a 2:2 draw in Split, Hajduk won the return leg in Częstochowa 3:2 after extra time and advanced with a 5:4 aggregate victory. It was a match in which the home team had to respond to an early goal from the visitors, and in which concentration, physical preparation and the ability to convert chances proved decisive.
In the return match against Raków, defender Ron Raci scored in the very first minute following a corner taken by Dalisson. This detail demonstrates how important set pieces can be for Hajduk in European matches, especially against opponents who enjoy greater control of the ball during open play.
In the Croatian championship, Hajduk had recorded five wins, one draw and two defeats after eight rounds, with a goal difference of 16:8. With 16 points, they were in second place behind Dinamo, who had collected the same number of points from seven matches. This situation shows just how closely contested the battle at the top of the league is.
The latest league results up to October 9 reveal two contrasting sides of Hajduk's play. Away against Rudeš, the Split team won 4:0, before defeating Slaven Belupo 1:0 at Poljud. However, in their following league appearance, they lost 3:0 to Rijeka at Rujevica. In that defeat, Hajduk created chances but failed to convert their attempts, while Rijeka punished defensive mistakes.
Hajduk have another demanding match immediately before facing Ajax. On Saturday, October 10, Dinamo visit Poljud for a league derby. Two major matches in quick succession raise questions about the distribution of playing time and player recovery. Garcia will have to balance the need for a result against Dinamo with preparing his team for Ajax.
Ajax's form and ambitions in the European season
Ajax arrive in Split as a club with extensive European experience, but their current squad is going through a new period under Spanish coach Míchel Sánchez. The former Girona coach took charge of Ajax during the summer of 2026, on a contract until 2028, and introduced an approach that emphasises technical quality, midfield control and combination play.
The Dutch team qualified for the league phase of the Conference League after eliminating FK Vojvodina, Shelbourne FC and FC Sion. They were particularly effective against Swiss side Sion, winning 4:2 away and then 5:3 in Amsterdam. A total of nine goals in two matches reveals considerable attacking potential, but also the fact that Ajax's defence was not without problems.
In the Eredivisie, Ajax had 14 points from seven matches and occupied fifth place. Ahead of them were AZ, Feyenoord, PSV and FC Twente. A goal difference of plus 12 shows that the team can score plenty of goals, but draws prevented them from climbing higher in the table.
Ajax's last three league results before the international break provide a useful insight into their form:
- Fortuna Sittard - Ajax 1:5, September 12, 2026 - a convincing away victory with five goals scored.
- Ajax - Willem II 5:1, September 15, 2026 - another highly effective attacking performance in which Ajax controlled the result.
- Ajax - Excelsior 2:2, September 19, 2026 - a draw showing that the Dutch team can drop points even after a period of excellent form.
Before travelling to Split, Ajax play a home league match against NEC on October 10. This encounter will be important for assessing their current readiness and possible changes to the starting line-up. The match against Hajduk comes only a few days later, meaning the visiting coach must also consider player workloads.
Key players for Hajduk and Ajax
Hajduk's attacking play relies heavily on the ability of their forwards to create space, win individual duels and link midfield with attack. Marko Livaja remains one of the Split club's most recognisable players. His ability to hold the ball under pressure and set up his teammates could be particularly valuable if Ajax take the initiative.
Michele Šego also has an important role. His performances during qualification confirmed that he can meet the demands of European matches, while his movement between defenders allows Hajduk to attack space after winning possession. In matches against opponents who maintain a high defensive line, players like him can prove decisive.
Dalisson is another name deserving attention. Against Slaven Belupo, he scored the winning goal with a header following a cross from Bamba, while in the away victory over Raków, he delivered the corner from which Raci found the net. His contribution shows that Hajduk do not have to create danger exclusively through ground-based play.
Marin Šotiček and Šimun Hrgović could be important in stretching the play and creating opportunities from wide positions. Defensively, attention should be paid to the reactions of the centre-backs and goalkeeper Toni Silić, especially if Ajax frequently enter the penalty area through short passing combinations.
Ajax have several highly interesting individual players. Julian Brandt arrived in Amsterdam during the summer after a spell with Borussia Dortmund. His ability to operate between the lines, shoot from distance and provide final passes gives Ajax additional creativity. In September, he scored two particularly notable goals against Fortuna Sittard and Willem II, and his goal against Fortuna was selected as Ajax's goal of the month.
Viktor Tsygankov brings pace, technique and experience from Spanish football. The Ukrainian winger has already worked with Míchel Sánchez at Girona, which may make it easier for him to understand the coach's demands. His one-on-one play and ability to cut inside present a challenge for Hajduk's full-backs.
Tolu Arokodare is particularly interesting in attack, a powerful centre-forward who can use his physical advantages in the penalty area. Davy Klaassen, Sofyan Amrabat and Oscar Gloukh bring additional quality in midfield, while Daley Blind and goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen provide experience in defence.
Important news for the visitors concerns Kasper Dolberg. The Danish striker injured his knee while on international duty and underwent successful surgery on his anterior cruciate ligament on October 7. Because of this injury, he will not be available for the match in Split. His absence increases the importance of Ajax's other attacking options.
On Hajduk's side, the fitness and final availability of players will need to be checked immediately before the match. Livaja previously missed the away fixture against Rijeka in September because of a viral illness, but this does not allow any conclusion to be drawn about his readiness for Ajax. Confirmed line-ups and any additional absences will become known closer to kick-off.
The tactical battle between Gonzalo Garcia and Míchel Sánchez
One of the key questions will be how long Hajduk can maintain an organised defensive structure against visitors who like to attack through possession. During his time at Girona, Míchel often used a 4-2-3-1 formation, but also other systems with different numbers of players in midfield. This adaptability allows Ajax to change their attacking approach depending on the opponent.
Ajax could try to impose their rhythm through short passes and gradually shifting Hajduk's defence. Brandt and Gloukh may look for space between the home side's midfield and defensive lines, while Tsygankov and other players positioned wide should create opportunities to move towards goal.
The distance between defence and midfield will therefore be particularly important for Hajduk. Too much space between the lines would allow Ajax's creative players to receive the ball in dangerous areas. On the other hand, dropping too deep could leave the home side without enough attacking options.
Garcia can use quick transitions from defence to attack. If Hajduk win the ball in midfield, a well-timed pass towards Šego or the wide players could open up space behind Ajax's defenders. Livaja's ability to link play could help the home side avoid losing possession immediately after leaving their defensive zone.
Set pieces represent another potential advantage for Hajduk. The goal against Raków and the successful conversion of a cross against Slaven Belupo are concrete examples of situations in which the Split team were effective. Corners and free kicks could become even more valuable if Ajax enjoy greater possession during open play.
Ajax's defence is not invulnerable either. The goals conceded against Sion and the draw with Excelsior show that chances can be created against the Dutch team. Nevertheless, this does not mean Hajduk can attack with large numbers of players without consequences. The balance between pressing and protecting the space behind the back line could determine how the match unfolds.
History of matches between Hajduk and Ajax
Hajduk and Ajax share an interesting history of European encounters. Their previous competitive meetings are particularly associated with the period from 1993 to 1995, when Ajax were gradually building a team that would reach the summit of European football.
In the first round of the Cup Winners' Cup in 1993, Hajduk defeated Ajax 1:0 at home, but the Dutch club won the return leg 6:0 and advanced. Two seasons later, the clubs met again, this time in the quarter-finals of the Champions League.
Overview of their previous European results:
- September 17, 1993 - Hajduk - Ajax 1:0, Cup Winners' Cup.
- September 29, 1993 - Ajax - Hajduk 6:0, Cup Winners' Cup.
- March 1, 1995 - Hajduk - Ajax 0:0, Champions League quarter-finals.
- March 15, 1995 - Ajax - Hajduk 3:0, Champions League quarter-finals.
The match played at Poljud in March 1995 is particularly memorable. Hajduk held Ajax to a 0:0 draw against a side coached by Louis van Gaal. In the return leg in Amsterdam, Ajax won 3:0 and later claimed the European title with a 1:0 victory over Milan in the final.
Among the best-known names of that Ajax generation were Jari Litmanen, Edwin van der Sar, Clarence Seedorf and the brothers Frank and Ronald de Boer. Their success remains an important part of the club's history and one of the reasons why matches involving Ajax attract interest beyond the Netherlands.
The upcoming encounter has a different competition format and different generations of players, but the historical connection adds another dimension to the story. Hajduk are seeking a result that would build on their home victory in 1993, while Ajax want to continue their successful record in head-to-head meetings.
Poljud Stadium: architecture, stands and supporter atmosphere
Poljud City Stadium is located in the northwestern part of Split, in the Spinut neighbourhood, at 8 Mediteranskih igara 2. It opened in 1979 for the Mediterranean Games and was designed by architect Boris Magaš. Its distinctive structure with large curved roof surfaces is a recognisable feature of the city's skyline.
According to the StadiumDB database, the stadium has a capacity of approximately 34,400 seats. The number of available seats for an individual international match may be lower because of security requirements, organisational areas and the separation of supporter sections.
The spectator stands are arranged around the football pitch and athletics track. The west and east stands are partially covered by large roof structures, while the north and south stands are more exposed to weather conditions. This arrangement creates different matchday experiences depending on the seating location.
The north stand is traditionally associated with the organised supporters' group Torcida. During major matches, flags, banners and choreographed displays are often unveiled there, accompanied by intense support that spreads to other parts of the stadium. Ajax's visit in a European competition provides an additional occasion for strong backing of the home players.
Poljud also has interesting attendance statistics this season. According to Hajduk's figures, the four European home matches during qualification attracted a total of 95,695 spectators, an average of 23,924 per match. This demonstrates how strongly European appearances attract supporters even before the league phase begins.
High interest is expected for the match against Ajax, but the exact attendance will depend on ticket sales and available capacity. Seats in the most sought-after stands may sell out earlier, so arriving without a previously secured ticket is not recommended.
Tickets for Hajduk - Ajax and entry rules
Ticket sales for the match began on September 29, 2026. Hajduk announced that active club members have the right to purchase tickets until matchday, while tickets may become available for general sale on the day of the match only if they have not sold out beforehand. Tickets for the north stand are available exclusively to active members.
These rules are important for international visitors planning to travel to Split. Booking transport or accommodation alone does not guarantee the possibility of buying a ticket. Particular attention should be paid to membership conditions, the selected section and the information required when purchasing.
Additional rules apply to the South family section regarding the joint purchase of tickets for adults and children. Visitors requiring accessibility arrangements for people with disabilities should check the application procedure and availability of adapted spaces in advance.
On matchday, visitors must have a valid ticket and a personal identification document with a photograph. It is recommended to check that the information on the ticket is correct and that the selected entrance corresponds to the section indicated on it.
In its general instructions for Poljud, Hajduk states that stadium entrances normally open at least two hours before kick-off. However, the exact opening time for Ajax should be confirmed through the latest announcement from the organiser or police. Security checks may take longer at international matches.
How to get to Poljud: transport, parking and security checks
Poljud is relatively close to central Split, so walking is often more practical than travelling by car. The main approaches to the stadium run through roads in the Spinut and Poljud areas, and traffic restrictions and temporary closures of certain streets may be introduced on matchday.
During previous European matches involving Hajduk, police restricted access to VIII. mediteranskih igara, Zrinsko-frankopanska and Put Supavla streets. At certain times, cars were allowed access only with special permits. The road closure schedule for Ajax still needs to be checked, as it may not be identical to arrangements for previous matches.
The most important practical information for visitors:
- Stadium address: Poljud City Stadium, 8 Mediteranskih igara 2, Split, Croatia.
- Arriving on foot: Poljud can be reached from the wider city centre without using a car, provided enough time is allowed for walking and security checks.
- Public transport: city buses operate through the surrounding parts of Split; current routes and any changes should be checked with the operator Promet Split.
- Parking: car parks immediately next to the stadium may be closed or reserved. Visitors arriving by car should consider more distant public car parks and continuing their journey on foot.
- Entering the stands: have your ticket and photo identification ready and avoid arriving immediately before kick-off.
It is particularly important not to rely on being able to park directly next to the stadium. During previous major matches, police warned that parking in nearby streets could be prohibited and improperly parked vehicles could be removed.
Supporters arriving from other countries can reach Split by air, road or rail, then continue by public transport or taxi. Split has an international airport, bus and railway stations and a passenger port, making it possible to combine several forms of transport.
For visiting Ajax supporters, it is important to follow the instructions concerning access to the away section. The organiser and police may designate specific walking routes or gathering points for visiting supporters. This information should be checked before travelling rather than assuming that the same entrances apply as for home supporters.
Safety and what to bring to the stadium
Entry to Poljud involves ticket checks and security screening of visitors. In previous instructions for European matches, the organiser emphasised the prohibition on bringing pyrotechnics, dangerous objects and items that could endanger the safety of other spectators.
Visitors are advised not to bring unnecessary luggage to the stadium. Large bags and objects that make inspections difficult may delay entry or be prohibited. Children must also have an appropriate ticket, and all spectators should use the seat and section for which they have entry rights.
Weather conditions in Split can be changeable in October. Checking the forecast is particularly useful because of possible rain or wind, as not all parts of Poljud are equally protected by the roof. Clothing suitable for an evening match may be more important than the daytime temperatures experienced in the city.
Visitors who wish to photograph the stadium before kick-off should enter the stands early. This also reduces the risk of missing the opening minutes because of queues at security checkpoints.
Split as the host city: what to visit before the match?
Split is a coastal city on the eastern shore of the Adriatic Sea, known for its historic centre built around Diocletian's Palace. For supporters attending the match and staying longer than one day, the city offers an opportunity to combine the sporting event with sightseeing and time by the sea.
Diocletian's Palace is located in the city centre and is one of its most important historical sites. Nearby is the Riva, a waterfront promenade with restaurants and cafés and views of the harbour. This area is suitable for a short visit before heading towards Poljud, provided enough time is reserved to reach the stadium.
Marjan, a wooded hill and recreational area west of the historic centre, is interesting for visitors who want to take a walk or discover panoramic views of Split. Unlike the central city streets, Marjan offers a quieter environment and viewpoints overlooking the coast and surrounding islands.
Supporters planning a one-day visit should consider traffic after the match ends. Increased numbers of pedestrians and vehicles around Poljud may extend travel times to the bus station, railway station or other destinations.
What to watch at Poljud from the first minute?
The opening stages of the match could reveal the balance of power between the teams. If Ajax immediately dominate possession, Hajduk will have to demonstrate defensive discipline and the ability to play out of pressure. If the home side manage to impose a more aggressive start and win the ball closer to the visitors' goal, the match could develop a different rhythm than expected.
One of the more interesting individual battles will involve Ajax's creative midfielders against Hajduk's central line. Brandt and Gloukh will look to find space between opposing players, while Hajduk will try to prevent passes into dangerous areas in front of the penalty box.
At the other end of the pitch, attention should be paid to the movement of Hajduk's forwards and their cooperation with the wide players. If the home side succeed in drawing Ajax's centre-backs out of position, opportunities will arise for runs into space, cut-back passes or shots from inside the penalty area.
Substitutes could also play an important role. Both teams face demanding schedules of domestic and European matches, increasing the importance of timely substitutions. In a high-intensity match, the freshness of players in the closing stages can be just as important as the initial tactical plan.
For spectators, the encounter will offer an interesting combination of the Dutch school of football and Hajduk's attempt to take advantage of playing at home. Poljud has already hosted major European matches, and the arrival of Ajax brings back to Split an opponent with whom Hajduk share an important part of their European history.
Supporters planning to attend are advised to arrange their tickets in advance, check the latest traffic instructions and allow sufficient time to reach their seats. The match begins at 18:45, and entering early makes it possible to watch the teams warm up, the player introductions and supporter activities before the referee's first whistle.
Sources:
- HNK Hajduk Split (hajduk.hr) - Conference League 2026/2027 league-phase calendar, kick-off time for the match against Ajax and schedule of subsequent European fixtures.
- HNK Hajduk Split (hajduk.hr) - results and league standings in the 2026/2027 season, including matches against Rudeš, Slaven Belupo and Rijeka.
- HNK Hajduk Split (hajduk.hr) - report on the RKS Raków - Hajduk 2:3 match and information about qualification for the league phase.
- HNK Hajduk Split (hajduk.hr) - announcement dated September 25, 2026, concerning ticket sales for Hajduk - Ajax, membership and purchasing rules.
- HNK Hajduk Split (hajduk.hr) - notices to supporters concerning safety regulations and general conditions of entry to Poljud.
- AFC Ajax (english.ajax.nl) - match schedule, current squad, league results, standings and first-team coaching staff.
- AFC Ajax (english.ajax.nl) - information about coach Míchel Sánchez, his tactical approach and Ajax's qualifying campaign.
- AFC Ajax (english.ajax.nl) - news dated October 7, 2026, about Kasper Dolberg's operation and the October 8 announcement about Julian Brandt's award.
- European Conference League website (Fixtures, Format and Matchday 1 briefing sections) - first-round schedule, competition format and preview of Hajduk Split - Ajax.
- European Champions League archive and Transfermarkt - historical head-to-head results between Hajduk and Ajax from 1993 and 1995.
- StadiumDB (stadiumdb.com) - capacity, history, architecture, opening year and address of Poljud Stadium.
- Split-Dalmatia Police Administration (splitsko-dalmatinska-policija.gov.hr) - security regulations, access restrictions and parking recommendations during previous European matches at Poljud.
- Split Tourist Board (visitsplit.com) - stadium location, transport infrastructure and visitor information about the city.