Controversial Penalty Call Sparks Outrage in Hajduk vs. Istra Match

A highly contentious moment overshadowed the 2-2 draw between Hajduk and Istra on August 9, 2026, in the second round of the supersport HNL. The match, played at Poljud, saw Istra's coach, Cabello, vehemently protest a disallowed penalty in the 90th minute, which he believed should have been awarded.

The incident occurred after a cross into the box resulted in a collision between Hajduk's Van Hoorenbeeck and Istra's Jaganjac. Jaganjac appeared to be struck in the head by Van Hoorenbeeck's elbow during an aerial duel. Despite the contact, referee Erceg waved play on, and VAR did not intervene, much to the fury of the Istra coaching staff.

Cabello received a yellow card for his strong reactions. Following the match, football fans across forums and social media platforms widely debated the incident. Many expressed the opinion that Istra was indeed denied a clear penalty. Even on Hajduk's official Facebook page, a significant number of comments from their own supporters suggested the referee, Mateo Erceg, favored Hajduk, with one highly liked comment stating, "Let's pay Erceg a night's stay and a lamb... the 12th man. Sad, but true..."

Despite the controversial call, Istra managed to secure a 2-2 equalizer in the 95th minute. The match marked another stumble for Hajduk's team, and the debate over the referee's decisions is likely to continue.