Malisheva devise 'strategy' to take down Hibs at Easter Road
Kosovans confident they can progress in Conference League
Malisheva manager Thomas Brdaric is targeting history when the Kosovans face Hibs this week.
The German coach brings his team to Easter Road on Thursday night aiming to reach the third qualifying round of the Conference League for the first time in Malisheva’s history.
They arrive in Edinburgh with a two-goal advantage following their surprise 2-0 win over Hibs in Pristina, which has firmly put the pressure on David Gray’s side.
Malisheva’s European history pales into comparison to Hibs’ and Brdaric says he will devise a strategy to ensure progress.
“It was a deserved victory, in which we also had a bit of luck,” said Brdaric, who tasted Champions League football as a player with Bayer Leverkusen. “I’m proud of my players. Now we need a strategy and hope to advance.
“Many fans will be in Scotland and it will be a completely different game. Our goal is qualification. We need to approach this with a strategy to achieve this historic qualification.”
Malisheva’s captain Dreni Kryeziu, who headed an Owen Elding effort off his own goalline in the first leg, has full belief that the Kosovans can get the job done
“I’m optimistic that we can advance to the third round,” said the 30-year-old. “We’ve gained the necessary experience, having now played in Europe for three years and matured as a team.
“It’s clear to see that we’re improving from game to game. We analyzed our opponents and exploited their weaknesses effectively.
“This was the biggest win ever for me. It’s the second matchday of the Conference League, and as captain, I’m absolutely thrilled."