Freiburg’s European hopes hinge on HJK or Motherwell clash

While SC Freiburg chase a return to the European league phase in 2026/27, they still do not know whether their UEFA Conference League play‑off opponent will be Finland’s HJK Helsinki or Scotland’s Motherwell, a dual‑leg tie that will decide their fate in the competition.

Freiburg secured a place in the Conference League play‑off round by finishing seventh in the Bundesliga last season. That league position granted them entry to the final hurdle before the 36‑team league phase. The club’s ambition is to re‑enter the European league phase for the 2026/27 campaign.

The German side are also looking to rebuild after reaching the 2025/26 UEFA Europa League final, where they were beaten 3‑0 by England’s Aston Villa. The loss underscored their desire to compete again on the continental stage.

Julian Schuster’s side will meet either the Finnish side HJK Helsinki or the Scottish Premiership outfit Motherwell over two legs. The first leg is scheduled for 20 August away, with the return match on 27 August in Freiburg.

The identity of the opponent will be settled in the third qualifying round, when HJK and Motherwell play each other on 6 and 13 August. The winner of that tie will travel to Freiburg for the play‑off.

A place in the 36‑team league phase of the UEFA Conference League is at stake, with the league phase set to begin on 15 October. Progress would see Freiburg join clubs from across Europe in the competition’s main draw.

Should Die Breisgauer advance, they will learn their league‑phase opponents on 28 August when the main draw is announced. That knowledge will shape their preparations for the European campaign.

The accompanying image is credited to © IMAGO/JOERAN STEINSIEK, while a second credit reads © IMAGO/JOERAN STEINSIEKbundesligaFreiburg.