Lithuanian attack versus Croatian class: prediction for Žalgiris vs Hajduk Split
The third qualifying round of the Conference League between Žalgiris and Hajduk Split will take place on August 6 at the LFF Stadium in Vilnius. The Lithuanian club heads into the clash riding high after a spectacular comeback against Dinamo Tbilisi, while the Croatians drop into the tournament following a painful exit from the Europa League qualifiers.
Žalgiris: attacking firepower makes up for defensive frailties
Žalgiris started their European campaign with back-to-back wins over Petrovac - 3-1 and 2-1 - but found themselves in dire straits after a 0-3 away defeat to Dinamo Tbilisi. In the second leg, Andrius Skerla's team produced a sensational performance, thrashing their opponents 7-2 despite Petković missing a penalty early on.
The Lithuanians have won five of their last six matches and currently sit third in their domestic league, just a point off the top. However, defense remains a weak spot: Žalgiris have shipped nine goals in their last five outings, and both teams have scored in five of their last six games.
Hajduk Split: favorites need to bounce back after back-to-back setbacks
Hajduk began their Europa League qualifying run with a 2-0 win over Žilina, before suffering a 1-2 away defeat but still progressing on aggregate. In the next round, the Croatians won their first leg against Pafos 2-0, but on Cypriot soil conceded four unanswered goals - including extra time - to crash out of the tournament.
Three days later, Gonzalo Garcia's side stumbled at the start of the Croatian league campaign, losing 1-2 to Varaždin. Marko Livaja had a chance to salvage a draw but missed a penalty in the 90th minute, so as they head to Vilnius, restoring confidence and halting their losing streak is paramount for the visitors.
Match facts and head-to-head
- Žalgiris have won five of their last six matches.
- All six of the Lithuanian club’s recent games have seen over two goals scored.
- Hajduk have won two of their four Europa League qualifying matches this season.
Will the visitors exploit the hosts’ vulnerability? Prediction for Žalgiris vs Hajduk Split
Žalgiris are in good form and can cause problems with their aggressive attack. Their demolition of Dinamo Tbilisi showed real character, but recurring defensive lapses could prove costly against an opponent boasting greater individual quality.
Hajduk have endured two tough defeats in a row, but the level of opposition in their European journey has been notably higher. The Croatians will be eager to seize the initiative ahead of the return leg at home, and the hosts’ leaky defense presents a golden chance to get back to winning ways.
