Resolute Hibs brave Skopje heat to secure European play‑off against Gent

Hibernian secured a place in the Conference League play‑off by grinding out a 0‑0 draw with Shkendija in the sweltering heat of Skopje, confirming a 2‑1 aggregate win that sets up a clash with Belgian side Gent and keeps their European hopes alive.

First‑leg edge preserved

The Leith men arrived in North Macedonia protecting a 2‑1 lead from the first leg after Irish defender Warren O’Hora’s late winner at Easter Road proved decisive. That goal, scored in the closing moments of the Easter Road encounter, meant the second leg began with Hibs already ahead on aggregate.

In the Todor Proeski National Arena, the Irish defender’s strike remained the difference as the match stayed dead‑locked, with no further goals in a tightly contested encounter. The heat in Skopje added to the intensity, but both sides struggled to break the deadlock.

Gent awaits in play‑off

After withstanding late pressure, Hibs celebrated the aggregate victory in front of 350 travelling supporters who made the journey to the Balkans. The fans’ presence underscored the importance of the win for the club’s European campaign.

Delighted Hibs boss David Gray said, “Don’t underestimate how big an achievement that is against a really good side. It wasn’t a brilliant game, but bodies on the line and our players stepped up.” He added that the squad deserved the clean sheet and the chance to progress.

Gray made four changes to the side that had started the Premiership win away at Rangers, bringing in Owen Elding, Nathan Lowe, Felix Passlack and Callum Wright while dropping Ante Suto, Thibault Klidje, Josh Campbell and Kanayo Megwa.

Shkendija were first to threaten when Almir Kryeziu sent a low shot just wide from the edge of the box. Hibs’ first real chance came in the 18th minute when Callum Wright, who had scored the late winner at Ibrox, failed to connect after a corner flicked on by Jason Kerr.

In the second half, Fabrice Tamba’s effort went harmlessly wide and Fahd Ndzengue’s angled strike hit the side netting after being set free by Tamba. Nathan Lowe blasted straight at goalkeeper Ferat Ramani after an Elding pass, while Ramani later dived at the feet of Elding from an Adam Mayor delivery.

Shkendija increased pressure in the closing stages, but Hibs’ defence held firm, sealing a 2‑1 aggregate victory and a ticket to the next round where they will face Gent in the European play‑off.