The Australian Croatian trio of Anthony Kalik, Noa Skoko and Fran Karačić all played a prominent role in Hajduk Split’s season opener in a UEFA Conference League qualifier during the week.
Former Sydneysider Kalik (pictured above) etched his name on the scoresheet after scoring Hajduk’s only goal in their 1-1 draw with Azerbaijan outfit Zira in the first leg of the Conference League’s second round qualifiers.
The 27-year-old played 85 minutes, while off season signing and Socceroo rep Fran Karačić came off the substitute’s bench in the final 20 minutes.
Meanwhile, former North Geelong Warriors junior product Noa Skoko started the match before coming off with 20 minutes remaining.
The talented 19-year-old attacking midfielder, who only managed a mere 17 minutes of senior game time under previous coach Gennaro Gattuso, played a total of 70 minutes and it would appear is considered in high regard by new Hajduk boss, Gonzalo Garcia.
Speaking on Hajduk Digital TV, Kalik was confident the ‘Bili’ would end up on top after the return leg in Split and progress through to the next round.
“It was a tough game, we started off badly as though we had a cramp right at the start,” Kalik told the reporter straight after the game.
“But bit by bit we found our rhythm and I think we dominated in the second half,” he continued.
“We will be focussed at our maximum and ready (for them),” continued Kalik, turning his attention to the next week’s second leg at home.
“When we play at home, we expect nothing else but progressing through to the next round. And that’s what I’m hoping will happen,” concluded the Australian Croatian midfielder.
The return leg will be played in the cauldron like atmosphere of the Poljud Stadium next Friday morning, Australian time, at 5am (AEST).
