VIDEO Osijek gets red card against Hajduk, watch the controversial situation

Hajduk Split gained a significant advantage in their match against Osijek when a VAR intervention led to the expulsion of Osijek defender Senad Mustafić. The incident occurred midway through the first half, altering the game's dynamics.

Hajduk opened the scoring early, with a goal in the ninth minute. The situation escalated in the 32nd minute when Osijek's Mustafić attempted to stop an Osijek attacker. Initially, the referee, Patrik Kolarić, issued a yellow card for the foul.

However, the VAR room advised Kolarić to review the play. Upon re-watching the incident on the monitor, the referee determined that Mustafić was the last defender and had denied a clear goal-scoring opportunity. Consequently, Kolarić overturned his initial decision and showed Mustafić a straight red card.

With Mustafić sent off, Osijek was forced to play the remainder of the match with ten men. This numerical disadvantage provided Hajduk Split with a greater opportunity to control the game and potentially extend their lead, significantly impacting the outcome of the match.