Hajduk, the runner-up of Croatia's league last season, will compete in the Europa League, starting with the first qualifying round, where the club is the holder. Six out of eight of Hajduk's potential opponents in this stage are already known.

Potential Opponents in the First Qualifying Round

Hajduk could face Žilina (Slovakia), Vojvodina (Serbia), Universitatea Cluj (Romania), Aluminij (Slovenia), Derry (Ireland), or Vestri (Iceland).

Implications of Advancing in the Europa League

If Hajduk progresses through the first qualifying round, they ensure at least four more European matches and a much easier route to the European fall season. If they fail in the first round, they will move to the second round of the Conference League. Advancing in each round of the Europa League also secures a higher seeding and easier second chances in the Conference League.

However, should Hajduk advance to the second qualifying round of the Europa League, they will likely face much stronger clubs with significantly higher European coefficients. Hajduk's coefficient is 10,000, while the lowest among potential holders in the second round, Pafos, is 24,125. Other potential opponents include Anderlecht (30,750), Maccabi Tel Aviv (32,500), PAOK (48,250), and Braga (63,750).

The Challenges in the Third Qualifying Round of the Conference League

Even in the Conference League, Hajduk faces tough competition. Potential opponents include Ajax, Gent, Rapid, Panathinaikos, Ludogorec, Partizan, Dynamo Kyiv, and Beşiktaş. Hajduk might draw easier opponents like Riga, Žalgiris, or Škendija Tetovo, but these are projections and not definitive.

Early Start in European Competition

Hajduk's European campaign begins unusually early, starting with the first qualifying round draw on June 16. The first match is scheduled for July 9, with the return match on July 16, meaning Hajduk will play the first qualifying round during the World Cup.