Hibernians take on FC Spartak Trnava in the second qualifying round, first leg, of the UEFA Conference League tonight.
This will be the fourth time Hibs have come up against this tough Slovakian side. Hibernians and Spartak Trnava met for the first time in the first round of the Champions Cup in 1969 with the first leg at home ending in a 2-2 draw and a 4-0 win for Spartak away from home. In 2014, Hibs were drawn with Spartak Trnava in the UEFA Europa League, winning 4-2 in Malta and 5-0 at home. Two years later, the two teams met once again in the UEFA Europa League with Spartak winning both legs 3-0.
It will be a stern test for Hibernians who are likely to have some of their new summer signings making their debut tonight. Romanian goalkeeper Laurentiu Branescu, four Brazilian players – central defender Charleston, defensive midfielder Pedro Cacho and wingers Pablo Alves and Cleiton along with Duane Bonnici. Ayrton Attard is back with the Paolites after a spell on loan with Valletta.
Hibs coach Branco Nesivic spoke of the threat posed by Spartak Trnava , telling Livenewsmalta that they are dangerous at set pieces and counter attacks.
As this is the first competitive game for Hibs, it will be a big test for the FA Trophy champions, even more so as he sets about introducing the new signings.
The game kicks-off at 6pm at the Tony Bezzina Stadium.
