Hajduk Split vs Sibenik Prediction: Fierce, local Dalmatian derby

The Dalmatian derby will be played in Poljud tomorrow, the better and stronger Hajduk welcomes Sibenik, who have started the season very well, beating Osijek and Lokomotiva away from home, staying in the safe zone... So, we can expect good football, the best that Dalmatia can currently provide. However, judging by the offer of bookmakers, the winner is already known, Hajduk can already count on three points. And it’s definitely not like that. They are separated by only 70 kilometers, connected by a common history and more than 80 names that have worn the colors of both clubs, but the rivalry between Sibenik and Hajduk grows fiercer every year. Today, the Dalmatian derby is a high-risk match that is often accompanied by severe fan riots. 

Form: DWWWW

The Whites will meet Sibenik in the local derby on Sunday, and if they win, they will take over the first place, something that was not expected some two months ago. Hajduk have been in great form lately, they are certainly favorites against Sibenik, but they will have to show it on the field. This will surely be a real test for Hajduk. In earlier seasons, there were very often cases where White would usually get stuck when it was most expected. Last season too, the giant from Split were at the top of the table, they crossed the finish line first in 2023, but in the spring, there was a decline and at the end of the season not a single trophy was won. Hajduk won against Dinamo away from home, survived Rujevica by playing a draw with Rijeka, and now are in a position to take the 1st place. Namely, after Rijeka played 0:0 on the road at Slaven Belupo, Hajduk have a chance to become independent in first place after nine rounds played. 

Form: DLDWL

In the first quarter of the championship, the “Orange” played against the strongest teams (Osijek, Dinamo, Rijeka) and won 3 points out of 9 possible, in the first match against Osijek. At that time, Osijek were still sought after. How much can Tsarevic's Sibenik offer, which after a furious start and 3 victories in 4 games, fell into a crisis? Primarily due to the crisis of creating chances, and therefore the goals, Sibenik did not score a goal in 3 of the last 4 games (Varazdin, Rijeka, Istra 1961). Even in Poljud, one should not expect that the host will allow them many chances, and those that will be, they will have to use if they want to get a point, or all three. 

Hajduk have 6 wins in a row against Sibenik at home and Gatusso’s squad is looking great at the moment. Sibenik had a great start, and as a newcomer to the league, they were very underestimated, but they showed great games despite every expectation.  However, lately, their form dropped. This match is very important for both teams, but I expect Hajduk to justify the role of the favorite and to win this derby in front of their fans.