NK Rudes U19 0-4 Hajduk Split U19: Dominant Hajduk Cruise to Away Victory

Zagreb, 16 May 2026 – Hajduk Split U19 continued their impressive push for the Croatian U19 League title with a comprehensive 4-0 win over NK Rudes U19 at the Rudes Stadium. The visitors were in control from the first minute, showcasing the technical quality and tactical discipline that has made them the division’s in-form side over the past two months.

Match Overview

Hajduk Split U19 wasted no time asserting their superiority. In the 8th minute, winger Mateo Kovačević cut inside from the left flank and curled a stunning shot into the far corner, giving the goalkeeper no chance. The early goal settled any nerves, and Hajduk continued to dominate possession against a Rudes side that sat deep in a 5-4-1 formation.

Midway through the first half, the visitors doubled their lead. A clever one-two between striker Luka Barišić and midfielder Filip Novak sent Barišić clear, and he finished with composure past the onrushing keeper. Rudes had a rare chance just before the break when a free kick drifted narrowly wide, but Hajduk’s backline, marshalled by captain Ivan Perković, remained resolute.

Second-Half Masterclass

The pattern continued after the interval. Hajduk’s high press forced turnovers in dangerous areas, and in the 55th minute Novak turned from provider to scorer, volleying home from a corner. The fourth goal arrived in the 67th minute when substitute Antonio Jurić pounced on a defensive error and slotted into an empty net.

Rudes rarely threatened, managing only one shot on target in the entire match – a tame effort from distance that was easily gathered. Hajduk could have added more, with Barišić hitting the post late on, but 4-0 was a fair reflection of the gulf in class.

Standout Players

• Luka Barišić (Hajduk Split U19): A constant menace with his movement and link-up play; scored once and assisted one more.
• Filip Novak (Hajduk Split U19): Controlled the midfield and capped his performance with a goal and an assist.
• Mateo Kovačević (Hajduk Split U19): Bright, direct, and opened the scoring with a moment of individual brilliance.

League Implications

Hajduk Split U19’s victory moves them to within one point of league leaders Dinamo Zagreb U19, with both teams having five matches remaining. Their goal difference has also been significantly boosted, now standing at +28. For NK Rudes U19, the defeat keeps them in the bottom half of the Croatian U19 League table, five points clear of the relegation places but with a tough run-in ahead.

Under head coach Mirko Hrgović, Hajduk’s U19 side has developed a reputation for playing attractive, attacking football while maintaining defensive solidity – they have now kept three consecutive clean sheets. With the title race heading into its final stretch, this performance sends a clear message to their rivals: Hajduk Split U19 are peaking at the perfect time.