Hajduk edge out Haka

HNK Hajduk Split fended off a spirited challenge from Finnish side FC Haka to win by the narrowest of margins at the Poljud stadium, claiming a 1-0 win on the night.

Crucial away goal
The victory meant that the Croatian side progressed on away goals after the tie finished level overall, with Petar Krpan's early goal in Hajduk's 2-1 first-leg defeat in Finland a fortnight ago proving decisive to earn his side a place in the first round of the UEFA Cup.

Early strike
The only goal of the game came in the ninth minute with Hajduk's best performer on the night, midfield player Dean Racunica, finding the target. However, despite establishing an advantage so early in the game, the Croatian side then tried to control the pace of proceedings with limited success.

Costly miss
The Finnish visitors enjoyed much the better of the second half and created some meaningful chances, none more so than in the 78th minute when midfield player Mikko Innanen scooped the ball over the target with only the goalkeeper to beat.