Hibernian vs Celtic Predictions

Hibernian vs Celtic Predictions for this Premiership game. Celtic leads the Scottish Premiership, having won last season’s treble and secured 16 points from the last 18, including a victory against Rangers but not all is going well for them. Read on for our free predictions and betting tips.

Scottish Premiership | Gameweek 23 – Feb 7, 2024 at 8pm UK at Easter Road

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Hibernian vs Celtic Predictions

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Easter Road Encounter: Celtic’s Dominance Meets Hibernian’s Resolve

As Celtic prepare to visit Hibernian at Easter Road, both teams find themselves at crossroads of different natures. Celtic, the reigning Scottish Premiership champions and treble winners, face scrutiny not for their on-field performances but for a perceived lack of ambition from the board. Meanwhile, Hibernian, under new ownership and amid dreams of challenging the Old Firm, are struggling to find form, collecting a mere two points from their last six league games. This encounter is not just about progressing in the FA Cup; it’s a test of resolve, strategy, and potential future trajectories for both clubs.

The Context of the Clash

Celtic’s dominance in Scottish football has been unparalleled, with an unbeaten run in their last six league games, including a victory over Rangers. However, the discontent among fans is palpable, fueled by a transfer window that left much to be desired. Despite this, Celtic’s on-field prowess, led by players like Myziane Maolida and Nicolas Kuhn, remains undeniable, with the team showcasing their ability to overcome adversities, as seen in their draw against Aberdeen.

Hibernian, on the other hand, faces its own set of challenges. The introduction of seven new players has not translated into success, with the team appearing disjointed and lacking a clear game plan. The defence, in particular, has been a point of concern, with recent games highlighting vulnerabilities that Celtic could exploit.

Tactical Analysis and Key Battles

The game’s outcome could hinge on the midfield battle, where Celtic’s ability to control possession and create opportunities will clash with Hibernian’s need to disrupt and counter. Key duels, such as Celtic’s Kuhn against Hibernian’s midfield enforcer, could dictate the pace and flow of the match.

Celtic’s strategy under Brendan Rodgers has always been about control and fluidity, with an emphasis on exploiting the wings. Hibernian’s task will be to counter this by maintaining a compact shape and utilising the pace of their forwards on the break.

Managerial Mind Games

Rodgers’ experience and tactical acumen give Celtic an edge, but his counterpart at Hibernian, Nick Montgomery, faces criticism for his handling of the team. Montgomery’s approach has been questioned, with many calling for a more coherent strategy to utilise the talent at his disposal.

Expected Lineups and Their Implications

Celtic: The expected lineup suggests a balance between attacking intent and midfield solidity. Players like Kuhn and Maolida provide creativity and goal threat, while the midfield trio will look to dominate possession and dictate play.

Hibernian: With new signings looking to make an impact, Hibernian’s lineup hints at a mix of experience and youth. The key will be how effectively they can implement Montgomery’s game plan, especially in midfield and defence.

Predictions and Insights

Prediction 1: Both Teams to Score – Yes

Despite Celtic’s dominance in the Scottish Premiership and their formidable run of form, they have shown vulnerabilities in defence that can be exploited. Hibernian, despite their recent struggles, possess the attacking capabilities to trouble Celtic’s backline, especially when playing at home with the backing of their supporters. The addition of Myziane Maolida’s flair and goal-scoring ability for Hibernian against a Celtic side that, while robust, occasionally lapses in concentration defensively, suggests that both teams finding the net is a likely outcome. This prediction leans on the historical context of their encounters and the current dynamics, where Celtic’s offensive might meets a Hibernian team desperate to make an impact and potentially turn their season around.

Prediction 2: Correct Score – Celtic 3-1 Hibernian

Celtic’s attacking prowess, spearheaded by the likes of Nicolas Kuhn and supported by a midfield capable of dominating possession and creating chances, positions them as clear favourites to win. Hibernian’s defensive frailties, evidenced in recent matches, coupled with Celtic’s need to assert their dominance and keep pressure at bay from their city rivals, lend credence to a 3-1 scoreline. This prediction acknowledges Hibernian’s potential to score, likely capitalising on a set-piece or a moment of brilliance, but ultimately Celtic’s superior quality and depth are expected to prevail, leading to a comfortable victory for the visitors.

Prediction 3: Goalscorer – Nicolas Kuhn to Score Anytime

Since joining Celtic, Nicolas Kuhn has quickly adapted, showcasing his knack for being in the right place at the right time and his ability to convert chances into goals. His recent performance against Aberdeen, where he came off the bench to equalise, underscores his importance to Celtic’s attacking plans. Given Hibernian’s defensive inconsistencies and Kuhn’s emerging role as a clutch player for Celtic, predicting him to score at any time during the match seems well-founded. Kuhn’s movement off the ball and proficiency in front of goal make him a constant threat that Hibernian’s defence will struggle to nullify throughout the match.

Prediction 4: First Half Result – Celtic Leading

Celtic’s strategy under manager Brendan Rodgers has often involved starting matches with high intensity, looking to establish an early lead and control the game’s tempo from the outset. This approach, combined with Hibernian’s tendency to concede early goals in games, particularly during periods of defensive disorganisation, suggests that Celtic could establish a lead by halftime. The confidence and form that Celtic bring into this match, juxtaposed with Hibernian’s search for form and coherence under Nick Montgomery, further solidify the likelihood of Celtic leading at the break, setting the stage for their control over the match’s flow and eventual outcome.

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