Malisheva 2-0 Hibernian | UEFA Europa Conference League Qualifying | 23 July 2026

Malisheva produced a commanding performance at their home ground to take a vital 2-0 victory over Scottish side Hibernian in the first leg of their UEFA Europa Conference League second qualifying round tie. The Kosovan champions controlled large spells of the match, capitalising on set‑piece efficiency and a disciplined defensive structure to leave Hibernian with a mountain to climb ahead of the return leg in Edinburgh.

First‑Half Pressure Pays Off

From the opening whistle, Malisheva set a high tempo, pressing Hibernian’s backline aggressively. The home side’s confidence grew after an early free‑kick forced a scrambling save from Hibs goalkeeper David Marshall. The breakthrough arrived in the 27th minute when midfielder Ardit Hoxha rose highest to meet a corner from the left, powering a header into the top corner. Hibernian struggled to cope with the physicality and aerial threat of the Kosovan side, who continued to push forward.

Second‑Half Sealer and Defensive Solidity

Hibernian attempted to assert more control after the interval, introducing Martin Boyle for fresh attacking impetus, but Malisheva doubled their lead in the 63rd minute. A quick counter‑attack caught the Hibs defence out of shape, allowing winger Liridon Kukaj to cut inside and fire a low drive beyond Marshall from the edge of the box. The visitors pushed forward in the final 20 minutes but found Malisheva’s back three resolute, with goalkeeper Faton Maloku making a crucial one‑on‑one save to preserve the clean sheet.

Key Statistics and Impact

• Possession: Malisheva 48% – 52% Hibernian
• Shots on target: 4 – 3 in favour of the home side
• Corners: 6 – 4
• Yellow cards: Malisheva 2, Hibernian 1

Malisheva’s victory marks their first ever win in UEFA competition and puts them in a strong position to advance to the third qualifying round. Hibernian, meanwhile, will need to overturn a two‑goal deficit at Easter Road next week, a task made more difficult by their failure to score an away goal.

What’s Next

The return leg is scheduled for 30 July in Edinburgh. Hibernian will hope to replicate their strong home form from last season, while Malisheva will aim to hold firm and secure a historic progression. The winner of this tie will face either FC Tobol or Honvéd in the next round.