MSK Zilina secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Hajduk Split in the first leg of their UEFA Europa League second qualifying round tie at the Štadión pod Dubňom on Thursday night. The Slovakian champions came from behind to take a slender advantage to Croatia, setting up a fascinating return leg.

Match Overview

The match kicked off under the lights with both sides eager to make a statement in European competition. Hajduk Split, the Croatian Cup winners, started brightly and were rewarded for their early pressure. However, Zilina showed resilience and tactical discipline to turn the game on its head before half-time.

Key Moments

• 9th minute – Hajduk strike first: A swift counter-attack caught the Zilina defence off guard. Winger Marko Livaja cut inside from the left and unleashed a curling effort that nestled into the far corner, giving the visitors a deserved lead.
• 34th minute – Zilina equalise: The home side responded emphatically. A long throw-in caused chaos in the Hajduk box, and centre-back Denis Vavro pounced on a loose ball, smashing it past the goalkeeper from close range.
• 42nd minute – Zilina take the lead: Against the run of play, Zilina struck again. A rapid break down the right flank saw winger Jakub Hronec square the ball for striker Tigran Barseghyan, who coolly slotted home from 12 yards.

The second half saw Hajduk push for an equaliser but Zilina’s defence, marshalled by Vavro, held firm. The visitors had a strong penalty claim waved away in the 67th minute, and their frustration grew as Zilina’s counter-attacks threatened to extend the lead.

Tactical Story

Zilina head coach Jaroslav Hynek set his team up in a compact 4-2-3-1, looking to absorb pressure and hit on the break. After falling behind, they showed greater urgency in midfield, with captain Miroslav Káčer dictating the tempo. Hajduk dominated possession (62%) but lacked cutting edge in the final third once Zilina organised their defensive block. The visitors' high defensive line was exposed twice before half-time, a flaw that will surely be addressed before the second leg.

Standout Players

• Denis Vavro (MSK Zilina): The Slovak international was a colossus at the back, scoring the equaliser and making several crucial clearances.
• Tigran Barseghyan (MSK Zilina): The Armenian forward’s composed finish proved to be the winner, and his hold-up play was vital in relieving pressure.
• Marko Livaja (Hajduk Split): Scored a wonderful early goal and remained a constant threat with his dribbling and vision.

Season Impact

This result hands Zilina a crucial advantage ahead of the return leg at Stadion Poljud on 24 July. Hajduk now know they must win by at least one goal to force extra time, or by two to advance directly. For Zilina, a place in the third qualifying round – and a potential tie against higher seeds – is now very much within reach.

The winner of this tie will face either Galatasaray or FC Sheriff in the next round, adding further incentive for both sides to produce a memorable second leg.