Hibernian defeated Shkendija Tetovo 2:1 in the Conference League third qualifying round on Wednesday evening. The result extends their unbeaten run to four matches after a mixed start to the campaign. By then the visitors had already shown they could compete, winning three of their last five outings.
Owen Elding broke the deadlock in the 73rd minute after a period of sustained pressure. The home side had dallied on the ball in midfield, looking for openings in the Shkendija defence. A moment later Martin Gjorgjievski levelled for the hosts with a composed finish, but Hibernian refused to settle.
Warren O'Hora provided the winner in stoppage time, capitalising on a defensive error. The substitution of Nathan Lowe at 90+1 proved crucial, as the young forward timed his run perfectly. To be fair, Shkendija had created enough to take something from the game, but they failed to convert their chances.
Hibernian dominated possession at 57 per cent and registered 14 shots to their opponents' four. Yet only four found the target, with shots accuracy sitting at 25 per cent. The visitors were more efficient, converting 40 per cent of their efforts on goal.
Five yellow cards were shown in total, with the final one coming in the 90+3rd minute. The match concluded with both sides making changes in the dying moments, though neither could alter the outcome.
Hibernian advance to the next stage with momentum on their side. Shkendija's European campaign ends here, despite a respectable display away from home.