NK Slaven Belupo vs HNK Hajduk Split Match Recap - Nov 2, 2025

In a match that offered more tension than thrills, NK Slaven Belupo and HNK Hajduk Split played to a scoreless draw in the HNL at Gradski stadion Ivan Kusek Apas on November 2, 2025. The encounter lacked the fireworks some had anticipated, but it certainly showcased the fierce competition present in Croatian football.

As predicted in my preview-I confess my bold prediction of a standout performance from Ante Šuto fell flat-this contest turned out to be less about star power and more about defensive resilience. Both teams entered this match with recently improved spirits: Slaven had just surged through their previous game against NK Varaždin with a 3-1 victory, while Hajduk was riding high after four straight wins.

The first half unfolded without major incidents as both teams looked to establish control. Hajduk held an upper hand in possession but struggled to break through Slaven's compact defense. Each side executed its strategy cautiously, clearly aware of what was at stake. With Hajduk sitting comfortably in second place with 25 points and targeting the top spot, they were keen on maintaining momentum.

Despite the lack of goals, pivotal moments quietly shifted the match's energy. An injury to Hajduk forward Marko Livaja late in the first half caused concern among fans and teammates alike. The striker, known for his crucial contributions in attack, was forced to exit early on, raising questions about how this would affect Hajduk's offense moving forward.

Slaven sought to capitalize on this opportunity as they opted for a more aggressive approach following halftime. The crowd rallied behind their players, pushing them toward finding that elusive breakthrough goal. Yet as chances came and went-a near miss by Andrija Filipović being among them-the visitors' defense held firm under pressure.

Tempers flared later in the game when Andrija Filipović found himself shown a red card after receiving his second yellow in the 81st minute. This moment transformed the dynamic of an already tense match; Slaven would have to withstand significant pressure with ten men against their formidable opponents.

Hajduk seized upon this advantage as they pressed forward relentlessly, creating several opportunities yet failing to convert any into goals. A pair of close-range shots from rising star Michele Šego, who has proven instrumental for Hajduk lately, failed to find their mark despite excellent setups from teammates.

Ultimately, neither squad could seize control long enough to claim all three points. The final whistle blew with neither team able to break through defensively structured play or capitalize on available opportunities.

In terms of league standings following today's result, NK Slaven Belupo remains fourth with 16 points from 12 matches while maintaining a solid gap above mid-table threats. Meanwhile, HNK Hajduk Split continues their chase for top position yet remains five points behind league leaders after this draw left them still searching for consistency.

Looking forward, both teams will need to regroup as they prepare for their next fixtures-Slaven visits NK Lokomotiva Zagreb while Hajduk faces off against NK Osijek at home on November 8. For Hajduk especially, questions loom over whether today's missed chances will ultimately prove costly should their title aspirations remain unchanged amidst tight competition.

As we reflect back on this eventful clash devoid of scoring brilliance yet full of tactical depth, one thing becomes clear: in high-stakes football like this rivalry affair-sometimes the strongest performances come not etched in the scoreline but within resolute defenses standing tall amid adversity.