Garcia: 'S*** happens, but we are not losers' after Hajduk's late draw

Hajduk Split's hopes of advancing in the Conference League playoffs suffered a blow as they were held to a 2-2 draw by Polish side Rakow at home. The Croatian team led twice in the match but conceded a late equalizer in the fifth minute of stoppage time.

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The red card changed the game. The match was difficult for both teams. We started well, they had their chances. At halftime we made some changes, scored the second goal, could have scored the third and then the red card came. We wanted to press high, but they didn't let us.

Hajduk took the lead in the 21st minute through Michele Sego, but Rakow, featuring former Dinamo striker Mahir Emreli, equalized six minutes later. The score was 1-1 at halftime. Hajduk regained the lead early in the second half with a goal from Dalisson, only for the momentum to shift dramatically in the 55th minute.

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When I saw the players, I believe we will advance.

Adrion Pajaziti received a red card for a two-footed tackle, forcing Hajduk to play with ten men for over half an hour. Rakow capitalized on the numerical advantage, eventually finding the equalizer through Diaby. Coach Gonzalo Garcia acknowledged the red card as the turning point, stating it made the match difficult for both sides. He remained optimistic about advancing, however, emphasizing the team's fighting spirit.

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No, he is a fantastic goalkeeper. I am sure he will get us through the next match.

"S*** happens, but we are not losers," Garcia said after the match. He defended goalkeeper Silić, who he believes will be crucial in the next game. Despite the draw, Garcia believes the tie is still 50-50, pointing to Hajduk's better chances during the game and expressing pride in his players' fight and maturity.

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No, because of the red card. We didn't play with one player less for ten minutes but for more than half an hour, it's hard to defend like that.