Hajduk take on Cyprus’s Pafos tomorrow at Poljud in the second qualifying round of the Europa League, with kick-off set for 9 pm. Coach Gonzalo Garcia and player Dario Melnjak previewed the tie on Wednesday.
Garcia outlined what he expects from Pafos.
“They’re a side that competed in the Champions League last season. They have quality and experience, so we’ll be up against a tough opponent. We saw how they played in pre-season, but we’ll see what tomorrow brings. I expect them to be competitive and to push us to give our absolute best,” he said.
Hajduk went into the Žilina tie as favorites, but the situation is different this time around.
“I don’t think we were favorites against Žilina either. Pafos aren’t bigger favorites than us. If we play as a team, we have a chance. That’s how it was against Žilina, and that’s how it will be against other sides,” said the Hajduk coach.
“There are two legs to be played. When we play at home, we have the advantage of our supporters, and this is a chance to use that to our benefit. We’ll go for the win. If we get a good result, we’ll be in a better position — and if not, we’ll have another 90 minutes away from home,” he added.
Can we expect to see Marko Livaja in the starting line-up?
“We never discuss the starting lineup. Livaja is fighting to earn his place back in the first 11, and I support that, because we need the real Livaja — motivated, competitive and full of drive. We’ll see, but I think you already know the answer,” Garcia said.
Melnjak revealed the mood in the dressing room.
“The atmosphere is good. We got through to the next round, and our goal is to keep progressing. Compared to Žilina, Pafos are a different kind of side, but we need to stay true to ourselves,” he said.
In the games against Žilina, Melnjak played on the left wing rather than at left-back.
“It’s all ‘left’ in the end, and I believe that with experience you need to be ready for any position,” he said.
Hajduk have had a slightly lighter schedule, with just one match a week before the domestic season gets underway.
“Since our pre-season was shorter, we’re building match by match. I hope our form keeps improving and that we get better and sharper as we go,” said the Hajduk player.
Legendary Brazilian center-back David Luiz also previewed the tie.
“This is a new chapter in my career and a big test at the start of the season. We have a squad that can fight for titles, and I’ve been lucky in my career to have played for clubs like this,” Luiz said.
The Brazilian icon has had the chance to play alongside several Croatian players during his career.
“It’s always been a pleasure to play with Croatians. Kovačić is one of the best I’ve played with, but I’ve played with plenty of others too. Hajduk have a lot of brilliant young players. It’ll be tough, but it’s a privilege. We’re in for a great football atmosphere,” said David Luiz.
The Brazilian is 39 years old but is still performing at the highest level.
“I rest, I watch what I eat, and I’m privileged to be healthy — that’s the most important thing. I want to help the team. God gave me the chance to play football and I have no complaints. Go to a hospital and see sick children there, and then you’ll see what a real problem looks like,” David Luiz said.
