Celtic Travel to Edinburgh to Face Hibernian in Scottish Premiership Clash
Having recently faced heartbreak on the European stage, Celtic FC is ready to shift gears as they visit Hibernian at Easter Road this afternoon. The match kicks off at 12:30 PM, and for Celtic, it’s all about focusing on domestic endeavors and firming their grip on the Scottish Premiership title.
Celtic's recent Champions League exit was tough to swallow, conceding a last-minute equalizer against Bayern Munich, leaving the squad eager to rebound strongly against Hibs. Currently, Celtic leads the Premiership table with 69 points, holding an impressive 13-point lead over their nearest rivals, and they are determined to solidify their position with another three points today.
Manager Brendan Rodgers confirmed the team changes following their midweek European encounter. Initiatives to refresh the squad are evident, as Rodgers has made three alterations to his lineup. Key players such as Paolo Bernardo and James Forrest remain sidelined due to injuries, but the absence is barely felt with the caliber of players available for today’s clash.
The starting XI sees goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel, who received the Man of the Match accolade during the Bayern match, backed by defenders including Jefferey Schlupp, Cameron Carter-Vickers, Alistair Johnston, and potentially the returning Greg Taylor. The midfield will be marshaled by Callum McGregor, who looks to build on his already impressive goal and assist tally, possibly receiving support from Arne Engels and Luke McCowan, who steps in as fatigue sets among regular starters.
On the attacking front, Adam Idah aims to lead the line, with Daizen Maeda and Nicolas Kühn expected to provide width. There’s anticipation surrounding the tactics; will Celtic maintain their fluid attacking style, or will they counter Hibernian's attempts to stifle play?
While Celtic has the upper hand historically, winning 22 of their last 27 encounters against Hibernian, there’s promise of competitive spirit from the home side today. Hibernian are unbeaten in 10 league games, the longest current run this season, impressively bouncing back after losses to other teams previously. Manager David Gray will hope his side can leverage the home advantage at Easter Road.
Last December, the two teams clashed, with Celtic winning 3-0—will they replicate this strong performance today? Hibernian supporters will be optimistic; they’ve made impressive strides under Gray and look to put their historical struggles against Celtic behind them.
A glance through social media highlights the fan anticipation, and some uneasiness about team selections. One fan expressed frustration over regular favorites being dropped, implying pressure on Rodgers to deliver results consistently. Nevertheless, fan reactions showcase the passionate involvement of the Celtic support base, ready to see how their team tackles this pivotal fixture.
The pre-match atmosphere is palpable, with fans buzzing to catch the game live on Premier Sports. Coverage begins at noon, ramping up excitement for the kickoff. The Celtic community outside Britain can catch the action via Celtic TV, ensuring widespread support beyond borders.
The stakes are high today; Celtic can move 16 points clear atop the table with victory, forcing rivalry pressures onto the second-place team, Rangers. The psychological edge is key as both teams prepare for their next engagements; Celtic has Aberdeen on the horizon, and Hibernian seeks to capitalize on today's competitive opportunity.
With all considered, the forecast for the match suggests Celtic will take the win, with predictions landing around 2-0. Nonetheless, fans of Hibernian hope to surprise the champions, making this encounter one to watch!