In a thrilling encounter at Parkhead, Celtic continued their impressive form with a comeback victory over Hibernian, triumphing 3-1 on May 10, 2025. Despite a shaky start, the champions showcased their resilience and attacking prowess, moving closer to their goal of another Treble.
The match began with an unexpected twist as Hibernian's Martin Boyle opened the scoring in the 25th minute, capitalizing on a weak block by Celtic's Auston Trusty. Boyle's low finish sent the Hibs fans into a frenzy, and it seemed like an upset could be on the cards. However, Celtic quickly regrouped, and their response was swift.
Just minutes after conceding, Celtic leveled the score when Nicolas Kuhn, who had recently returned from injury, found the net with a simple tap-in after Hibs goalkeeper Jordan Smith misjudged a long ball. This goal marked a pivotal moment in the match, shifting the momentum firmly in Celtic's favor.
Four minutes later, Adam Idah put the Hoops ahead with a stunning finish from a tight angle, showcasing his skill and composure. This goal was particularly significant for Idah, as it marked his 20th of the season, affirming his status as one of the league's top scorers.
As the second half unfolded, Celtic continued to dominate the game. Reo Hatate sealed the victory with a powerful strike from the edge of the box, bringing the score to 3-1. This goal not only secured the win but also equaled Celtic's tally of 106 league goals for the season, matching the record set during Brendan Rodgers' Invincible campaign in 2016/17.
Brendan Rodgers expressed pride in his team's performance, stating, "We showed great character to come back after going a goal down. The players executed the game plan well, and it's always satisfying to see young talents like Sean McArdle debuting and contributing to the team. Sean's had a good run with the B-team, and now he needs to build on this opportunity. He showed personality when he came on, and I hope he continues to learn from our experienced players like Callum McGregor."
McArdle, a rising star at just 17 years of age, made his debut in the dying minutes of the match, receiving a warm ovation from the home crowd. His introduction is a testament to Celtic's commitment to nurturing young talent.
Despite the loss, Hibernian remains in contention for a top-three finish, with hopes resting on their upcoming matches. David Gray, Hibs' manager, will be looking for a stronger defensive performance in the future, as the team has struggled with consistency this season.
The match also featured a controversial moment when Hibs were denied a penalty after a VAR check deemed that Chris Cadden's arm did not warrant a foul. This decision left Hibs fans frustrated, as they felt it could have changed the course of the game.
As the final whistle blew, Celtic celebrated their victory, moving onto 88 points for the season. This win keeps the pressure on their rivals as they chase yet another Treble, a feat that would solidify their dominance in Scottish football.
Looking ahead, Celtic's next challenge will be crucial as they aim to maintain their winning streak. With players like Kuhn returning to form and young talents emerging, the squad looks poised to make a strong push in the final stretch of the season.
Overall, the match served as a reminder of Celtic's strength and depth, with both established stars and emerging players contributing to their success. As they gear up for the upcoming fixtures, fans can expect more thrilling performances from the champions as they continue their quest for glory.
