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Ivan BulyanYugoslav footballer, defender, Croatian football coach
Date of Birth: 11.12.1949
Country:  Croatia |
Content:
- Ivan Buljan: A Croatian Football Legend
- Success with Hajduk Split
- German Adventure with Hamburger SV
- NASL Experience
- International Career
- Career Summary
- Personal Accolades: Yugoslav Footballer of the Year (1975)
Ivan Buljan: A Croatian Football Legend
Debut and Rise to ProminenceIvan Buljan, a Yugoslav defender, made his professional debut at the tender age of 18 for Hajduk Split on December 3, 1967, in a match against Radnički Niš. While that match would be his only appearance in his rookie season, Buljan established himself as a regular in the following season, becoming Hajduk's main defender for the next decade.
Success with Hajduk Split
Over the course of 193 league, 24 cup, and 22 European Cup matches with Hajduk, Buljan showcased his exceptional skills, scoring an impressive 58 goals. His contributions earned him three Yugoslav First League titles, five Yugoslav Cups, and the prestigious Yugoslav Footballer of the Year award in 1975.
German Adventure with Hamburger SV
In 1977, Buljan sought new challenges and joined German club Hamburger SV. With HSV, he captured the German Bundesliga title, two second-place finishes, and reached the final of the 1979-80 European Cup, where they narrowly lost to Nottingham Forest. Buljan's 103 Bundesliga appearances, 27 goals, and contributions to HSV's success left an enduring mark on the club.
NASL Experience
After departing Germany, Buljan spent two seasons with the New York Cosmos in the United States. Despite only playing 23 matches and scoring 3 goals, he participated in two Soccer Bowls, winning one championship. This achievement added the NASL title to his impressive list of accomplishments.
International Career
Buljan made his international debut for Yugoslavia on September 26, 1973, in a friendly match against Hungary. He represented his country at the 1974 World Cup and the 1976 European Championship. His final cap came in a qualifying match for the 1982 World Cup against Greece on November 29, 1981, a victory that secured Yugoslavia's place in the tournament. In total, Buljan made 36 official appearances for Yugoslavia, scoring 2 goals.
Career Summary
Club Matches: 546International Matches: 36
Goals: 87
Club Titles: 3 Yugoslav First League, 5 Yugoslav Cup, 1 German Bundesliga, 1 NASL Soccer Bowl
