In a high-stakes clash set to electrify Croatian football, HNK Rijeka and HNK Hajduk Split will meet at the Stadion HNK Rijeka on November 22, 2025. With the hosts languishing in eighth place, battling their way through a rocky patch with just 14 points from 13 matches, they find themselves on the ropes against a dominant Hajduk Split side sitting atop the league table with an impressive 29 points. It's an all-or-nothing showdown for Rijeka, desperate to rise from their current form that has seen them scrape just three wins this season. For Hajduk, it's about maintaining momentum and proving they are the class of Croatian football.
Predicted Lineups
HNK Rijeka: GK: Martin Zlomislić, DEF: Mladen Devetak, Anel Husić, Ante Majstorović, MID: Toni Fruk, Dejan Petrovič, Merveil Ndockyt; FWD: Duje Čop.
HNK Hajduk Split: GK: Ivica Ivušić, DEF: Šimun Hrgović, Zvonimir Šarlija, Branimir Mlačić; MID: Filip Krovinović, Ante Rebić; FWD: Michele Šego.
Rijeka's recent form is troubling. They're reeling from a heart-wrenching loss to NK Varazdin and narrowly avoided defeat against Lincoln Red Imps in the Europa Conference League. Despite solid possession stats-boasting over 59% in their last two matches-their inability to convert that dominance into goals is glaring. In stark contrast lies Hajduk's momentum: fresh off a victory against NK Osijek and an ironclad defensive structure that has allowed them to drop points only twice this season. Their performances speak volumes; with nine wins out of 13 games, they clearly have found a formula for success.
Recent head-to-head encounters reveal both teams can trade blows effectively; remember their thrilling August matchup? A 2-2 draw showcased defensive frailties on both ends but hinted at attacking prowess lurking beneath surface-level statistics. The tactical approaches diverge sharply: while Rijeka often opts for aggressive ball movement in midfield aiming for diagonal runs behind defenses-highlighted by Toni Fruk's knack for threading incisive passes-Hajduk plays a more structured game focusing on quick transitions leveraging wing play and finding pockets of space through passing maestro Filip Krovinović.
Let's delve into what could be pivotal in this encounter statistically. Rijeka's possession-based approach has been effective but seems ineffective given they only managed five shots on goal against Varazdin-a team struggling defensively themselves! Their expected goals (xG) tally was barely scraping above zero in several recent fixtures-a clear indication of struggles converting chances into tangible results.
Conversely, look at Hajduk's sharpshooters like Michele Šego-the striker has notched six goals this season already-taking his shot conversion rate close to clinical territory. And while they may not dominate possession as significantly (averaging around 51%), they've showcased ruthlessness when opportunities arise (38 shots resulting in about one goal every two matches).
The key tactical battle lies between Rijeka's midfield dynamism powered by Ndockyt and Fruk versus Hajduk's sturdiness anchored by Rebić and Krovinović. Will Rijeka expose any potential weaknesses in Hajduk's backline? Or will Hajduk exploit any defensive lapses from Rijeka? Defensive duels will shape the contest-they must win those battles if Rijeka hopes to break down a resilient opposition defense.
Disciplinary issues also loom large; with red cards creeping up during heated moments recently-it's worth noting that Rijeka committed multiple fouls per match during their lackluster spell preceding this showdown. They'll need cooler heads when emotions run high; after all, losing composure can cost dearly in such crucial encounters.
As I sift through statistical insights alongside recent form analyses-I sense an urgent call to action for Rijeka while Hajduk looks poised to maintain their status as frontrunners within Croatian football! All things considered-momentum shifts undeniably come at unpredictable junctures within high-intensity derby matches!
Based on everything analyzed-the prediction here isn't merely hopeful but rather firmly based on data-driven insights combined with passionate nuances underscoring both clubs' spirits heading into Saturday's dust-up: HNK Rijeka needs nothing less than total conviction playing before home fans while Hajduk should ideally seize any opportunities afforded via swift counterattacks!
Expect fireworks! The spotlight beckons upon two contrasting identities seeking glory in one shared moment-and despite facing adversity recently,I believe sheer desperation will drive HNK Rijeka forward which unfortunately may not suffice against tenacious opponents leading them towards another championship-winning campaign ahead-scoreline predicting possibly edging towards a tense yet decisive victory firmly resting upon HNK Hajduk Split (1-0 or even perhaps pinching it at edge marginally!)
This match promises thrills galore alongside tactical adjustments showcasing diverse philosophies reigning supreme across Croatia's football tapestry-that beautiful game pulling everyone together like never before! Get ready-for what could very well transform lives across these borders all thanks to football once more!