During a recent 21st round game of the SHNL League, Hajduk Split's Torcida fans celebrated their team’s 2-0 victory over Slaven Belupo by unfurling a banner aimed at Red Star Belgrade supporters. In the second half, amidst a festive atmosphere, they displayed a provocative message reading "We are the gang across the Drina in three motherf***ers," while also showcasing and subsequently burning jerseys, scarves, and other memorabilia taken from the Delije fans, which are associated with Red Star Belgrade. This act was a direct reference to a violent encounter in Tuzla, where Torcida had ambushed Delije fans two weeks prior.

This violent history between the two supporter groups has been a recurring theme, reflecting the intense tribalism and rivalry that has plagued Balkan football for decades. The conflict intensified when Hajduk's fans organized an ambush on Delije after their return from a match against Malmö in Sweden, leading to a brawl involving nearly 200 individuals. This skirmish resulted in injuries for four Delije fans, highlighting the dangerous underbelly of contemporary football hooliganism in the region. Torcida’s actions during the match not only served as a celebration of their recent victory but also as an assertion of dominance over their rivals.

The implications of such actions extend beyond the football pitch, as they represent a broader culture of violence and rivalry within the Balkans that often manifests itself in physical confrontations. It raises concerns over public safety at sporting events and the ongoing challenge for authorities to manage and mitigate the risks associated with fan violence. With football remaining a significant social entity in the region, such displays threaten to undermine the communal spirit and enjoyment that accompanies sporting events, potentially leading to stricter regulations and increased policing in the future.