LIVE AA Gent chase early advantage as Roef saves Elding penalty

LIVE AA Gent face Scottish Hibernian in the final qualifying round of the Conference League at the Planet Group arena, with the Buffalo’s opening at home; Davy Roef immediately restores balance by saving Elding’s penalty in the 15th minute, keeping the score level.

Early dominance and penalty drama

AA Gent began sharply, forcing an early corner that Bénes struck without power, the ball rolling across the Planet Group arena.

At 15' the live feed recorded “Geen 0-1!” as Davy Roef reaffirmed his reputation, choosing the right side and stopping the Strafschop from Elding.

Later, Ngom noted O'Hora’s absence, launched a full‑force strike at the Hibernian captain, and the ball landed on the spot before Delorge whistled a free‑kick that reached Sonko, the Swedish forward, who decided the outcome.

Support, strategy and stakes

About 1,700 Scottish supporters travelled, yet only 1,000 seats were allocated for Hibernian fans, the remainder watching the match from Gent’s city centre.

Coach Rik De Mil stressed the importance, saying “We beseffen allemaal hoe belangrijk dit is” and that reaching the League Phase remains the season’s goal.

De Mil added that Hibernian is “the best opponent” encountered, describing them as compact, disciplined, and capable of playing the direct Göteborg style.

Playing at home first changes the usual approach; De Mil warned that Gent must attack from minute one rather than wait for an away‑leg advantage.

Training at the Oostakker complex saw the squad assemble for a final session, with Matisse Samoise and Hyllarion Goore still unavailable but everyone else present.

Young debutant Ibrahima Cissé, 18, emerged as match‑winner despite having lost both parents, underscoring the emotional backdrop of the encounter.

The contrast between Gent’s aggressive home start and Hibernian’s travelling support highlights the fine margin that will decide whether the Belgian side secures an early foothold or faces a resilient Scottish challenge.