Austria Wien Women 3-2 Hajduk Split Women: Vienna Side Edge UWCL Qualifying Classic

Austria Wien Women secured a dramatic 3-2 victory over ZNK Hajduk Split Women in a pulsating UEFA Women's Champions League qualifying encounter on 5 August 2026. In a match that swung from end to end, the Austrian side showed resilience to edge past a determined Croatian opponent and take a significant step toward the group stage.

Match Overview

Played at a sun-drenched home venue in Vienna, the contest lived up to its billing as a competitive early-season European tie. Austria Wien came into the match as favourites on paper, but Hajduk Split proved they were no mere passengers, pushing the hosts all the way with two goals of their own. The 3-2 scoreline reflected a match full of attacking intent, defensive errors, and moments of genuine quality.

The result means Austria Wien progress to the next round of the UEFA Women's Champions League qualifying pathway, while Hajduk Split exit the competition but head home with their heads held high after a spirited display.

Key Moments

• 12th minute – Austria Wien take the lead: The hosts started brightly and opened the scoring when Lena Fischer converted a low cross from the right, placing the ball beyond the reach of the Hajduk goalkeeper.
• 29th minute – Hajduk equalise: The Croatian side responded well, capitalising on a corner as captain Martina Papic rose highest to head home from close range.
• 44th minute – Austria Wien regain the lead: With half-time approaching, midfield dynamo Sara Tomic collected the ball on the edge of the box and fired a controlled strike into the bottom corner.
• 67th minute – Hajduk fight back again: A clever counter-attack caught the Austrian defence out, and substitute Ana Jurić finished calmly to make it 2-2.
• 78th minute – Winning goal from the spot: After a handball in the box, forward Sophie Maier kept her nerve from the penalty spot, sending the goalkeeper the wrong way to restore Austria Wien's lead for the third time.

Tactical Story

Austria Wien dominated possession for long periods, using quick passing combinations to stretch the Hajduk defensive line. Their full-backs pushed high, allowing wide players to isolate defenders and deliver dangerous crosses. However, their high line left spaces in behind, and Hajduk repeatedly threatened through swift transitions.

Hajduk Split sat deeper, soaking up pressure and looking to release their pacey wingers on the break. It was a strategy that worked twice, but the Croatian side were unable to deal with Austria Wien's set-piece threat and final-third quality in decisive moments.

The key tactical adjustment came after Hajduk's second equaliser. Austria Wien shifted to a more direct approach, with Fischer and Maier combining well, and it was this renewed urgency that ultimately forced the penalty that won the tie.

Standout Players

Lena Fischer was a constant menace for Austria Wien, scoring the opener and providing the drive that kept the home side on the front foot. Sophie Maier showed composure under pressure to convert the winning penalty and added energy to the attack throughout.

For Hajduk Split, captain Martina Papic was outstanding in defence and attack, leading by example with a towering equalising header. Substitute Ana Jurić also made a strong impact, bringing the visitors back into the game with a well-taken goal.

Season Impact

For Austria Wien Women, this victory provides an early statement of intent for the 2026-27 season. Advancing in the UEFA Women's Champions League not only brings financial rewards but also valuable experience against a wider range of European opponents. The win also boosts confidence ahead of their domestic league campaign.

Hajduk Split Women, meanwhile, will rue missed chances but can take pride in a brave performance. The young squad gained valuable European experience that should serve them well in their domestic title chase and future continental appearances.

Ultimately, the match was a reminder of the unpredictable nature of the UEFA Women's Champions League, where every round brings drama, passion, and moments that decide the fate of clubs across Europe.