Easter Road bore witness to a night of profound European football heartbreak as Hibernian FC’s Europa League journey culminated in a dramatic extra-time exit, a stunning late goal pitching them into the Conference League instead. The Edinburgh side’s valiant effort against European regulars Midtjylland ended in a 2-1 defeat on the night, sealing a 3-2 aggregate loss that left fans stunned and players crestfallen.

The atmosphere at Easter Road crackled with anticipation from the outset, fueled by high hopes and the intriguing presence of potential new signing Grant Hanley, who observed the unfolding drama from the main stand. Supporters believed this could be the night their team defied expectations, setting the stage for a truly memorable encounter under the floodlights.

Early into the second half, the drama intensified when Franculino Dju appeared to put Midtjylland ahead, calmly slotting the ball past Smith. However, a lengthy VAR check brought immense relief to the home crowd, as the goal was ultimately disallowed for offside, a cheer erupting that resonated far beyond the stadium’s confines.

Hibs themselves experienced a moment of fleeting joy, only for it to be snatched away, when Boyle’s run and cross led to a Nicky Cadden ‘goal’ being ruled out for offside in added time. The desire to avoid the grueling prospect of extra time was palpable, yet the match relentlessly marched towards it, amplifying the tension with every tick of the clock.

Four minutes into extra time, the deadlock finally broke in a cruel twist for Hibs. Daniel Osorio, a player widely coveted across European leagues, unleashed a sublime strike that screamed past Smith and into the net, leaving the goalkeeper with no chance. This seemed to be the decisive blow, sending a wave of despair through the home support.

Yet, the spirit of Hibernian refused to yield. Just when all hope seemed lost at the end of the first half of extra time, Rocky Bushiri emerged as an unlikely hero. Rifling an Elie Youan cross into the roof of the net, Bushiri’s injury-time equaliser sparked absolute bedlam among the record home crowd, turning agony into ecstasy in an instant.

But the euphoria was tragically short-lived. Following the dramatic equalizer, a spectacular overhead kick from Junior Brumado in the dying minutes of extra time sealed Hibs’ fate. It was a moment of sheer brilliance that delivered a crushing blow, ending their Europa League aspirations in the most heart-wrenching fashion imaginable.

The night concluded with disappointment, forcing a swift alteration of travel plans as David Gray’s men now prepare to face Partizan in Belgrade in the Conference League. Despite the bitter taste of defeat, the match will be remembered for its pulsating drama, a testament to the unpredictable and often cruel nature of European football knockout ties.