Motherwell will face Bundesliga side Freiburg in the Conference League play-off round if they overcome HJK Helsinki in the third qualifying round. The Steelmen, currently 3rd in the Premiership with 3 points from 1 game (1W-0D-0L), would host the first leg at Fir Park against a team that reached last season’s Europa League final.
What’s next for Motherwell?
Motherwell must first navigate their third qualifying round tie against Finnish champions HJK Helsinki. Should they progress, they’ll face a formidable test against Freiburg, who finished 5th in the Bundesliga last season. The play-off ties are scheduled for August 20 and 27, with the first leg at Fir Park.
Why this draw matters
The potential clash with Freiburg represents Motherwell’s toughest European challenge in recent years. Freiburg’s run to the Europa League final last season highlights their quality, but the Steelmen will take confidence from their strong start to the domestic campaign, including a 2-1 win in their opening league fixture.
Who else could Motherwell face?
If Motherwell fail to progress past HJK Helsinki, they will exit European competition for this season. However, if they advance, they would face Freiburg in a two-legged tie, with the winners securing a place in the Conference League group stage.
Current squad status
Motherwell are currently without Apostolos Stamatelopoulos, Callum Hendry, Jordan McGhee, Paul McGinn, and Stephen O’Donnell through injury. Their next league fixture is at home to Dundee on December 19, 2026, with the Dark Blues sitting 11th in the table.
