The rivalry between Hibernian and Celtic is one of the most intense in Scottish football. These two historic clubs have been battling it out on the pitch for over a century, captivating fans with their passionate encounters.
A Brief History of the Rivalry
While not as intense as the Old Firm derby between Celtic and Rangers, the Hibernian-Celtic rivalry has its own unique flavor. Both clubs have a rich history and passionate fan bases. Hibernian, often referred to as “Hibs,” was founded in 1875, while Celtic was established in 1888.
The rivalry between the two clubs has intensified over the years, fueled by various factors. Geographical proximity, contrasting fan cultures, and significant matches have all contributed to the heated atmosphere surrounding these encounters.
Key Factors Driving the Rivalry
Geographical Proximity: Both clubs are based in Edinburgh, Scotland’s capital city. This proximity has led to intense local derbies, with fans from both sides often living in the same neighborhoods.
Contrasting Fan Cultures: Hibernian fans are known for their working-class roots and passionate support, while Celtic fans are often associated with a strong Catholic identity and a broader fanbase.
Significant Matches: The two clubs have faced each other in numerous important matches, including Scottish Cup finals and league title deciders. These high-stakes encounters have added fuel to the rivalry.
Recent Encounters and Notable Moments
In recent years, the Hibernian-Celtic rivalry has produced some memorable matches. Celtic, as one of Scotland’s dominant clubs, has often held the upper hand, but Hibernian have occasionally sprung surprises.
Some of the most notable moments in recent times include:
2016 Scottish Cup Final: Hibernian defeated Celtic 3-2 in a thrilling final, ending a 114-year wait for a major trophy.
2021 Scottish League Cup Final: Celtic claimed a 2-1 victory over Hibernian, securing the trophy.
2022 Scottish Premiership Encounters: The two teams faced each other in the Scottish Premiership, with Celtic emerging victorious in both matches.
Fan Culture and Atmosphere
The atmosphere at Hibernian-Celtic matches is electric. Both sets of fans are known for their passionate support, creating a vibrant and intense atmosphere at Easter Road, Hibernian’s home ground.
Hibernian Fans: Known for their vocal support and colorful displays, Hibernian fans create a unique atmosphere at Easter Road.
Celtic Fans: Celtic’s large and dedicated fanbase often travels in significant numbers to away matches, including those against Hibernian. Their passionate support can intimidate opponents and create a hostile environment.
Impact on Scottish Football
The Hibernian-Celtic rivalry is an important part of Scottish football culture. It helps to generate excitement, attract fans, and contribute to the overall spectacle of the Scottish Premiership.
The rivalry has also had a significant impact on the development of both clubs. It has motivated players to perform at their best and has driven both clubs to invest in their infrastructure and facilities.
Future of the Rivalry
The future of the Hibernian-Celtic rivalry looks promising. Both clubs have ambitious plans to continue challenging for honors and attract top talent. As long as both clubs remain competitive, the rivalry is likely to continue to thrive.
FAQs
What is the head-to-head record between Celtic and Hibernian?
Celtic and Hibernian have faced off in 86 matches. Celtic have secured 54 wins, while Hibernian have won 11 times. There have been 21 draws between them, with an average of 3.03 goals per match.
When did Celtic last beat Hibernian?
Celtic’s most recent victory came in the Scottish Premiership on 11 August 2024, with a 2-0 away win at Hibernian
What were the last five match results?
11 August 2024: Hibernian 0-2 Celtic
7 February 2024: Hibernian 1-2 Celtic
6 December 2023: Celtic 4-1 Hibernian
28 October 2023: Hibernian 0-0 Celtic (draw)
24 May 2023: Hibernian 4-2 Celtic
What are the current league standings for Celtic and Hibernian?
Celtic continues to perform strongly in the Scottish Premiership, often positioned at the top or near the top of the league table. Hibernian, while competitive, typically does not challenge for the title and is often positioned mid-table.
Who are key players to watch?
For Celtic, standout players include Kyogo Furuhashi, who, despite recent fitness concerns, remains a vital scoring threat. Midfielders like Callum McGregor and Reo Hatate are central to their tactical play. Hibernian’s Martin Boyle is a key figure, known for his pace and attacking skill.
What is the typical game strategy for both teams?
Celtic often adopts an aggressive, high-pressure strategy, leveraging their depth and quality in attack to dominate possession. Hibernian, meanwhile, tends to play with a balanced approach, focusing on counter-attacks and exploiting spaces left by more aggressive opponents.
What are the injury updates for both teams?
Recent updates indicate that Daizen Maeda has returned from injury for Celtic, potentially strengthening their lineup. For Hibernian, Hyeokkyu Kwon is ineligible due to loan restrictions against his parent club, Celtic. Additionally, Elie Youan and Junior Hoilett are sidelined.
How can fans watch the match?
Fans can catch the match on various platforms depending on their location:
UK & Republic of Ireland: Premier Sports 1 and the Premier Sports Player
USA: Streaming via Paramount+ and Celtic TV.
What is the overall prediction for their upcoming match?
Celtic has been consistently dominant over the past few seasons, so they are favored to win. Recent trends indicate high-scoring games between the two, suggesting an exciting match with potential goals.
To conclude
The Hibernian vs Celtic rivalry has a rich history, showcasing Celtic’s dominance with an impressive win rate and goal-scoring prowess. The dynamic nature of these fixtures often brings thrilling performances, bolstered by skilled players and intense tactical battles. While Celtic’s performance is marked by relentless attacking and strategic depth, Hibernian remains a formidable side capable of upsets, particularly with their quick counter-attacks. Fans from around the world will continue to watch for new chapters in this compelling fixture, hoping for memorable moments and potentially unexpected results.
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