Sallinger’s save keeps AA Gent in contention against Scottish Hibernian

In the opening minutes of the Conference League tie, AA Gent’s goalkeeper Sallinger tipped away a dangerous header from Volckaert, giving the Belgian side a lifeline as the match against Scottish Hibernian got underway at the Planet Group arena.

Opening moments and early pressure

The last qualifying round of the Conference League pits AA Gent against the Schotse Hibernian, with the Buffalo’s opening the game at home. Journalist Jordi De KoninckSportjournalist of HLN20 notes coach Rik De Mil’s aim to "make the difference at home".

At the 60th minute a Stevige tackle by Josh Campbell saw the Schot continue his challenge on Van Heyden, earning a yellow card. Araujo and Volckaert met for the second time, while a cross from the Portugees wing‑back tested Sallinger, who tapped the ball out of the goal.

Gent’s attacking intent

AA Gent pressed after the break, with Araujo and Delorge linking in a one‑two and the Portuguese delivering a quality cross that Volckaert could not fully head into the second post.

An attack through the heart of the Scottish defence saw the Vlieger find Delorge, who then looked for Vergara. The Panamanian struggled with control but the effort fell to Sallinger, who kept the ball out.

Hibernian recovered from the early pressure, balancing the scoreline. Davy Roef chose the right corner for a penalty, which the goalkeeper saved, preserving Gent’s advantage.

A penalty for Hibernian later saw Ngom miss O'Hora and strike the visiting captain, the ball hitting the spot before being cleared.

Approximately 1,700 Scottish supporters travelled to Gent, but only 1,000 could fit in the sold‑out visitors’ stand, leaving many to watch from the city centre.

Four Scottish journalists attended the press conference at the Oostakker training complex, underscoring the duel’s importance. Coach De Mil said, "We are all aware how important this is… Hibernian is the best opponent we have faced this season."

Training continued on Thursday evening with most of the squad present, despite Matisse Samoise being out for months and Hyllarion Goore sidelined for weeks.