- Hibernian won 2-1 when these sides met last week, so the side have work to do.
- FK Shkendija 79 are averaging 2.00 goals scored and 1.30 goals conceded per game across all competitions since the start of their season.
- Hibernian have conceded 12 goals in their last 10 games, an average of 1.20 per game.
Sturdy Shkendija can keep Hibs honest
Hibs are the slight favorites to come out on top in North Macedonia on Thursday at 2.44, with Shkendija 2.87 and the draw 3.53. However, there is value to be had in the goals markets with Under 2.5 at 1.93 and BTTS - Yes at 1.65 our main selections in this FK Shkendija 79 vs Hibernian FC preview.
The first punch has already landed in this UEFA Conference League Qualification contest with Hibernian coming out on top 2-1 last week. However, with Shkendija coming into the game on the back of a 3-0 win over FK Vardar Skopje and a 3-1 victory over NK Bravo just prior to the defeat, there is no value in Hibs here.
The sides seem evenly matched enough to see a similar result. Hibs won 4-1 against FC Malisheva in the previous round and then fell to a 2-1 loss to Motherwell before edging the Scots ahead in this tie, while Shkendija have three wins and two defeats in their last five. Shkendija's average of 2.00 goals scored and 1.30 conceded across all competitions this season suggests they can play their part in a fairly tight European game, but leave enough room for Hibs to exploit too.
Hibs have the edge in key areas
David Gray has managed Hibernian since 15 May 2024 and his flexible approach to formation has seen the club come out on top in games they should have won, but they are also able to switch to a back four or a wing-back system when they come up against a side that can hurt them. Our FK Shkendija 79 vs Hibernian FC prediction is that Gray's men are the more likely winners here, but they won't get an easy game from FK Shkendija 79. FK Shkendija 79 vs Hibernian FC betting tips point to a tight contest, and Artim Polozani has been at the helm since 1 July 2026 and his side looks set up to be compact and get the ball up the field quickly. They are a 4-2-3-1 or 4-3-4 side in general. Almir Kryeziu is FK Shkendija 79's key outlet and top scorer in UEFA Conference League Qualification, with him scoring twice in five games. Owen Elding has Hibs' sharpshooter's record with two goals in three in the competition and he looks like the best value bet for an anytime goal here. FK Shkendija 79 vs Hibernian FC prediction suggests a narrow margin either way.
