Hajduk Split celebrated a significant 2-0 victory against Slaven Belupo in the 21st round of the HNL, marking their first win of 2026. However, the attention was quickly drawn away from the match itself to the actions of their supporters, known as Torcida. In light of threats from rival fans, the Torcida fans made a controversial statement by displaying a provocative banner in their section, which insulted members of the opposing fan group and referenced a recent violent altercation in Tuzla.

This incident has serious repercussions for Hajduk's fan base, as such displays are likely to lead to disciplinary actions from the Croatian Football Federation (HNS). The banner's wording, which directly alluded to the conflict where numerous individuals were injured and several Torcida members were arrested, indicates a heated rivalry that goes beyond typical sports rivalries, pointing towards a more deeply rooted antagonism in regional politics.

The implications of this behavior extend beyond the immediate realm of football, indicating the potential for fan violence and the broader cultural and social tensions present within Croatian society. As the football season progresses, it remains crucial for institutions like HNS to address the underlying issues that can lead to such divisive reactions from fan groups, to safeguard the integrity and safety of the sport.