Topic overview
In brief
- Hibernian Football Club won 2-1 against Shkendija in the UEFA Conference League third qualifying round first leg.
- Owen Elding scored the first goal for Hibs, followed by a quick equalizer from Shkendija's Marko Gjorgjievski.
- David Gray praised his team's character and emphasized the need for improvement ahead of the return leg.
Summary
In a thrilling UEFA Conference League third qualifying round first-leg match held at Easter Road, Hibernian Football Club faced off against Shkendija. The game took place on August 3, 2026, and saw Hibs initially struggle to convert their dominance into goals. After a tense first half, Owen Elding finally broke the deadlock in the 73rd minute with a low drive, giving Hibs a much-needed lead. However, Shkendija quickly responded, leveling the score just three minutes later through Marko Gjorgjievski, who capitalized on a defensive lapse. The match seemed destined for a draw until Warren O'Hora scored a late winner for Hibs, securing a 2-1 victory. This win puts Hibernian in a favorable position ahead of the return leg next week, although head coach David Gray acknowledged that the performance was not their best. He emphasized the importance of finding a way to win and expressed confidence that the team could improve in the upcoming match. The game showcased the resilience of Hibs, who managed to regain their lead despite the setback, demonstrating their character and determination on the pitch. The match was marked by moments of frustration for the home fans, particularly during the first half when Hibs struggled to find their rhythm. However, the introduction of substitutes like Callum Wright injected new energy into the team, ultimately leading to their hard-fought victory. As they prepare for the return leg, Hibernian will look to build on this success and aim for a stronger performance.