Pre-season Friendly: NK Celje vs HNK Hajduk Split
Lovro Kovacic
Celje and HNK Hajduk Split faced off in an exciting pre-season friendly, providing fans with an entertaining match full of intensity, tactical battles, and valuable preparations ahead of the new campaign.

Foto: Lovro K - Mr.Green.Photo
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NK Celje - HNK HAJDUK 1.7.2026NK Celje and HNK Hajduk Split Meet in an Exciting Pre-Season Friendly
Slovenian champions NK Celje welcomed Croatian giants HNK Hajduk Split for a highly anticipated pre-season friendly. The match offered both teams a valuable opportunity to test their squads, build chemistry, and prepare for the challenges of the upcoming season.
A Competitive First Half
Both sides started the match with high intensity, looking to control possession and create early chances. Celje impressed with their organized build-up play, while Hajduk relied on quick transitions and attacking movement to threaten the opposition.
The opening half featured several promising opportunities at both ends of the pitch, with solid defensive performances and confident goalkeeping preventing an early breakthrough.
Valuable Minutes for the Squad
As expected in a pre-season fixture, both managers made multiple substitutions during the second half, giving valuable playing time to young talents and new signings. The match maintained a competitive rhythm, allowing both coaching staffs to evaluate individual performances and tactical setups.
The atmosphere created by the supporters added to the occasion, making the friendly feel like a competitive encounter despite the result being secondary to the preparation process.
Looking Ahead
For NK Celje, facing an opponent of Hajduk Split's quality provided an excellent benchmark before the official season begins. Hajduk also leaves the match with positive insights as preparations continue for domestic and European competitions.
With pre-season entering its final stages, both clubs will now focus on fine-tuning their squads and building momentum ahead of the competitive campaign.