Hajduk Split vs Osijek Prediction: Derby of the round in HNL

The epithet of the derby this Saturday, and at the same time the derby of the entire 34th round of the SuperSport HNL, belongs to the clash between Hajduk and Osijek, which will compete in Poljud starting at 6 p.m. Hajduk Split lost the dream of another season's title and with three rounds before the end, they cannot move from second place. Osijek had a very turbulent season, and they can break the series of defeats against Hajduk. The meeting between the second and fourth teams in the ranking will be very interesting, despite the fact that it will not have any impact on the appearance of the ranking. Hajduk Split is certainly the favorite at home, and they have already defeated Osijek twice this season.

Form: WDDWL

Even though “Torcida” fans and ultras are impatient about the results and winning the much-desired title, Hajduk did what was expected of them this season despite all the falls, unpleasant surprises, injuries, absences, and manager changes. Second place and qualification for the UEFA Conference League are secured, so the team will certainly be more relaxed in the three remaining rounds. Hajduk Split are in second place in the HNL standings with 72 points, which is only 10 less than the leading Dinamo. Hajduk have 18 wins, 8 draws, and 7 losses with a goal difference of 58-41. At home, Hajduk have 10 wins, 4 draws, and 2 losses with a goal difference of 33-18. Hajduk have not lost in the last 4 games and the last round, they beat Lokomotiva Zagreb 3-0.

Form: DWWLD

After a draw in the big derby with Dinamo, in the last round, Osijek will have a duel with the second-strongest team in the league within just a week. As we know, Osijek are currently in a close and dramatic European battle for third and fourth place, which they currently occupy with two points behind the third-placed Rijeka and four points ahead of the first followers Istra and Varazdin. Osijek come to Poljud with a special motive, remembering when in March they experienced a double knockout from Hajduk. They were then eliminated by the Split team from the quarter-finals of the cup, and ten days later Hajduk took all three points from Gradski vrt with a 2:0 victory.

Regardless of the result of this match and the remaining rounds, Hajduk can no longer go up or down from the current second position. On the other hand, Osijek is in a dramatic fight for Europe, so, refreshed by the new coach Stjepan Tomas, have the potential to remain undefeated at Poljud. Hajduk have also been playing very well lately, although there is still regret for missed chances and another unsuccessful season when it comes to the HNL title. Osijek had an excellent undefeated streak against Hajduk that lasted for years, but was defeated in the last three matches against them. This match will be an ordinary rally between two quality teams in which both will score at least one goal.