Chaiwa Scores Debut Goal but Hibernian Crash Out of UEFA Conference League

Zambian midfielder Miguel Changa Chaiwa announced himself on the European stage with his debut goal for Hibernian FC in the UEFA Conference League playoff second leg against Legia Warsaw, but it was not enough to save the Scottish side from elimination.

Introduced in the 57th minute, the 19-year-old midfielder made an immediate impact, scoring just four minutes later to put Hibernian 3-1 up on the night and 4-3 ahead on aggregate. His goal, his first for the club since joining earlier this month, sparked wild celebrations among the Hibs faithful who travelled to Poland.

Hibernian had entered the match trailing 2-1 from the first leg and fell further behind when Vahan Bichakhchyan struck in the 13th minute to extend Legia’s advantage to 3-1 on aggregate. However, the Scots roared back in the second half: Rocky Bushiri levelled the tie in the 50th minute before captain Martin Boyle put them ahead just nine minutes later.

Chaiwa’s strike looked set to seal a remarkable comeback, but heartbreak struck late on. Jurgen Elitim equalised for Legia in stoppage time to force extra time, before the Polish side sealed their passage with the decisive goal in the 98th minute, winning 5-4 on aggregate after a thrilling 3-3 draw on the night.

Despite the elimination, Chaiwa’s performance has given Hibernian and Zambian fans much to be optimistic about. The Chipolopolo midfielder has already shown his pace, agility, and composure, marking himself as one of Zambia’s most exciting young talents to watch.