Hibernian Face Malisheva in Conference League Qualifier

Hibernian are set to face Malisheva in the Conference League second qualifying round at Stadiumi Fadil Vokrri on Thursday. The hosts have consistently competed for a place in the league phase of the Conference League in recent seasons, having featured in the qualifying rounds in 2024-25, 2025-26, and 2026-27.

What happened?

Malisheva have overcome Vllaznia 6-2 on aggregate to book their spot in the second qualifying round. They will be considerable underdogs against Scottish Premiership opponents Hibernian, but the hosts will look to draw confidence from their home record in the Conference League, having recorded two wins and suffered a narrow 1-0 defeat in their three home matches.

Why it matters for Hibernian

Hibernian remain the overwhelming favourites to secure a victory and progress into the Conference League third qualifying round. They have failed to qualify for any European competition since a first-round exit in the 2005-06 UEFA Cup, and will be eager to finally secure their place in the league phase of the competition this season.

What comes next?

Hibernian will be looking to pick up a commanding victory in Thursday's first leg. They head into the match off the back of an encouraging pre-season, having fallen to a 1-0 loss to Shamrock Rovers in their opening friendly before bouncing back with a 5-1 win against Cliftonville FC and a 2-1 victory against Brondby.

League standing: 5th in Premiership, 51 pts, 13W-12D-8L from 33 games, recent form LWWLL. Goals this season: 51 scored, 37 conceded (+14 goal difference). Title race: 19 points behind leaders Heart Of Midlothian. Last result: Hibernian 0-1 Motherwell (2026-05-16). Recent form (last 5): 3W-0D-2L (LLWWW, most recent first); lost the last 2. Next fixture: vs Heart Of Midlothian (at home, 2026-09-02) (1st in the table).

Team News

Hibernian are dealing with an injury to Rocky Bushiri, who is anticipated to be ruled out until early August due to an Achilles tendon injury. Loan signing Nathan Lowe scored a brace on his debut for Hibernian in their 2-1 win against Brondby last time out, and the striker could lead the line alongside Martin Boyle on Thursday.

Malisheva Possible Starting Lineup

Avdyli; Pira, Kryeziu, Shani, Veliu; Xhylani, Vitija, Ferati; Isgandarli, Ibishi, Uka

Hibernian Possible Starting Lineup

Sallinger; O'Hora, Hanley, Obita; Passlack, Mulligan, Chaiwa, Mayor; Wright; Lowe, Boyle

We say: Malisheva 1-3 Hibernian. Malisheva do have a strong record at home in this competition, but Hibernian are undeniably the stronger team.