His most notable stint abroad was in the Canadian Soccer League with Toronto Croatia with whom he achieved two CSL Championships, and a First Division title.

[11] The following season he won the double with Croatia by clinching the First Division title, and defeating the Montreal Impact Academy in the CSL Championship final.

He featured in the quarterfinal match against York Region Shooters, where they advanced to the next round after a 4-2 victory in a penalty shootout.

[14] Pirija played with the Croatia national under-17 football team, and was selected for the 1996 UEFA European Under-16 Championship.

He later played with the Croatia national under-19 football team, where he appeared in four matches, and recorded one goal.