Hibernian head coach David Gray has labelled KAA Gent as his side's toughest European opponent to date. Gray spoke with BBC Scotland in Ghent on Wednesday evening about the upcoming UEFA Conference League play-off, stating his team needs two complete performances to progress.
The Scottish coach acknowledged the quality of the Belgian Pro League club, which is accustomed to European football and consistently competes at the top end of their domestic league. KAA Gent has started the season strongly and currently sits fifth in the Jupiler Pro League with six points from two matches. They have scored four goals and conceded just one, giving them a +3 goal difference.
What makes KAA Gent such a strong opponent?
Gray analysed the strength of the Gent squad. "I think they've got a wee bit of everything," the Hibernian boss said. He pointed to the good balance of youth and experience within the team, and the presence of really good athletes. This mix of qualities makes Gent a complete opponent in his view.
The Ghent-based club trails league leaders Club Brugge KV by just three points. Their next match is a significant home fixture against that same Brugge side on 30 August 2026, a clash you can track on our standings page. Gent will be without the injured Matisse Samoise for this important match, presenting a challenge for the squad.
How is Hibernian preparing for this challenge?
Hibernian comes off a hectic period but has achieved results that Gray believes merit their place in this play-off. The Scottish club has created its own history in recent seasons with memorable European performances, including good results away from home.
Gray stressed his team now needs to reach that same level of performance to have the best chance of reaching the group stage. Hibernian has never before reached the group phase of a European competition, adding significance to this tie. The coach sees it as an opportunity to create more history.
What does this mean for Gent's European campaign?
For KAA Gent, this play-off represents an important step in their European ambitions. The club has made a strong start to the season with two consecutive wins, building confidence ahead of the double-header with Hibernian. Their defensive solidity, conceding only once in two league games, provides a solid foundation.
The match against the Scots comes at a busy point in the calendar, just before the top-of-the-table clash with Club Brugge. The coach and players must manage energy and focus across these two significant fixtures. Current squad status, including injuries, can be followed on our injuries page.
Gray's analysis, as reported by the BBC, underscores the respect Gent commands from European opponents. The first leg of the play-off takes place in Ghent, where the home side will look to capitalise on their strong competitive form. The return leg in Scotland follows later, when it will become clear if Gray's prediction about needing two complete performances proves accurate for his team.
