Hibs are on the brink of history after a cool, disciplined performance in Skopje secured a Conference League playoff spot, keeping alive the chance of a first-ever European group-stage appearance and a £5 million jackpot.
Mission accomplished in Skopje
David Gray's side produced a professional display in melting Macedonia to take the fire out of Shkendija and progress. The Easter Road team were denied a shot at the group stages last term with a heartbreaking playoff loss to Legia Warsaw, but now return to the final hurdle for a crack at Belgians Gent.
Facing tough conditions and a dangerous home team, Gray's men answered all questions with control and composure. They had chances to win on the night, but a place in the playoffs was the aim and it was mission accomplished.
Key players shine
Miguel Chaiwa and Josh Mulligan, both at the centre of transfer talk, were crucial in midfield. Chaiwa anchored in front of the backline and stuck close to Shkendija captain Arbin Zejnullai, who barely got a kick and went off just after the hour. Mulligan was disciplined and played with an old head.
Gray made four changes from the 2-1 win at Rangers, with Callum Wright, who bagged the winner in Glasgow, replacing Martin Boyle in the only change from the first leg. The pair swapped in the second half, and the ability to bring on quality such as Boyle and Jamie McGrath was vital.
Dealing with a tricky surface
Hibs had to cope with a spongy, patchy pitch in Skopje. Gray had remarked that, although a hot climate usually means a firm pitch, the playing area had soft spots. Choosing the correct footwear was key, and Wright slipped inside three minutes, losing a promising position.
A clean sheet was enough for progress, and it was the first of the season for Hibs after five matches without one. Raphael Sallinger had little to do in the first half, with Warren O'Hora, Jason Kerr and Jordan Obita solid, assisted by Felix Passlack and Adam Mayor. The backline was excellent and picked a perfect time to chalk up that cherished blank.
Shkendija, who had beaten Slovan Bratislava, FCSB, Ludogorets and Shelbourne at the National Arena Todor Proeski last term, pushed harder in their time of need, but Hibs were resolute and stood firm to sit potentially 180 minutes from the promised land.
