Hibernian vs Celtic
Scottish Premiership
Wednesday
7th February 2024
Easter Road
The most comprehensive preview, detailed analysis and reliable predictions of the Scottish Premiership fixture between Hibernian and Celtic.
Hibernian vs Celtic: Preview
Hibernian form analysis
Hibs have struggled for form recently, failing to win any of their last 5 league matches. Their last victory came against Motherwell on January 2nd, where they twice came from behind to draw 2-2 courtesy of goals from Youan. However, prior to that they were beaten 1-0 at home by Hearts and have since suffered consecutive defeats without scoring. The 3-0 loss away to Rangers on January 25th was a harsh reality check, as clinical finishing from the hosts saw them cruise to a comfortable win.
Just days later, Hibernian tossed away a 1-0 lead at Kilmarnock as defensive mistakes allowed the hosts to claim a 2-2 draw. Most recently at home to St Mirren, Hibernian were outplayed and outworked, going down 3-0 and rarely threatening the opposition goal. Manager Nick Montgomery will be deeply concerned by his side’s lack of creativity and attacking threat. At the back, concentration levels must improve to cut out individual errors. Overall Hibernian’s form is a real worry ahead of a difficult run of games and confidence appears drained after a sub-standard run recently.
Celtic form analysis
Celtic come into this run of games in strong form, having won 4 of their last 5 league matches. Their only dropped points came in a 1-1 draw away to Aberdeen, where defender Moritz Kuhn managed to secure them a point. Prior to that, Celtic saw off Ross County 1-0 through a goal in the opening minute from Anthony Johnston. There was also an emphatic 3-0 away win against St Mirren. Goals spread throughout the team from Maeda, O’Riley and Taylor. However, the highlight result was the hard-fought 2-1 home victory over bitter rivals Rangers on December 30th.
Celtic put in an excellent attacking display as Paulo Bernardo and Kyogo Furuhashi goals saw them lead 2-0 early in the second half. Despite allowing Rangers back into it late on, manager Brendan Rodgers would have been delighted to get one over their biggest challengers for the title. With Rodgers’ attacking philosophy bringing goals from all areas of the pitch, Celtic look extremely dangerous going forward. He seems to have found the right balance, with the defence also looking assured alongside Moritz Kuhn. Overall, Celtic’s form suggests they are well primed to kick on and continue their push for the title.
