The Scottish Premiership title race is heating up as Heart of Midlothian host Celtic in Round 23. With only six points separating the two sides at the top of the table, this clash could prove decisive in shaping the championship outcome. The Jam Tarts are chasing their first league crown in over six decades, while The Bhoys are determined to close the gap and keep their title defence alive. Both teams come into this fixture in strong form, promising an intense and high-quality encounter.

Heart of Midlothian’s Recent Form and Key Stats

Hearts have been the standout performers of the season so far, sitting at the summit of the Premiership with an impressive record of 15 wins, 5 draws, and just 2 defeats. Their consistency has been remarkable, and they remain unbeaten in their last 16 home matches. The team’s attacking efficiency has been equally impressive, averaging 1.9 goals per game while conceding only 0.8. In their last five outings, Hearts have recorded three wins, one draw, and one defeat, scoring an average of 1.4 goals per match.

Even after a 1-1 draw against Falkirk on January 17, the home side’s momentum remains strong. They have scored in 30 of their last 32 matches and have not lost at half time in 19 of their last 21 home fixtures. Their dominance at home has been a key factor in their title charge, and they will look to extend that run against their closest rivals. The Jam Tarts have already beaten Celtic twice this season, results that have given them a crucial advantage in the standings.

• Unbeaten in their last 16 home matches.


• Scored in each of their last 13 Premiership home games.


• Have not lost in 30 of their last 32 matches overall.


• Average goals scored: 1.9 per match; conceded: 0.8 per match.

Celtic’s Recent Form and Key Stats

Celtic remain in second place, chasing Hearts with 14 wins, 2 draws, and 6 defeats. Their recent form shows signs of recovery after a difficult spell earlier in the season. The Bhoys drew 2-2 against Bologna on January 22 and have recorded three wins, one draw, and one loss in their last five matches, averaging two goals scored and one conceded per game. Despite their attacking strength, Celtic’s inconsistency has cost them valuable points, particularly against stronger opponents.

One of the most notable trends for Celtic has been their fast starts. They have won at half time in their last five matches and in their last three Premiership away games. Over 0.5 goals have been scored in the first half of each of their last 15 matches, highlighting their attacking intent from the outset. However, their defensive lapses have been a concern, especially in high-pressure fixtures. The Bhoys have not drawn in their last 16 Premiership matches, showing a tendency for decisive outcomes—either victory or defeat.

• Won at half time in their last five matches.


• Over 0.5 goals at half time in each of their last 15 games.


• Average goals scored: 1.8 per match; conceded: 1.0 per match.


• No draws in their last 16 Premiership fixtures.

Head-to-Head and Tactical Overview

The rivalry between Hearts and Celtic has been fierce this season. In their previous two meetings, Hearts emerged victorious with 2-1 and 3-1 wins, demonstrating their ability to handle the pressure against the reigning champions. Historically, Celtic have had the upper hand, but recent results suggest a shift in momentum. The last head-to-head encounter ended 1-2 on December 7, 2025, in favour of Hearts, further underlining their current superiority.

Both teams boast strong attacking records, and their matches have consistently produced goals. Hearts have scored in nearly every game this season, while Celtic have failed to find the net in only two of their last 22 matches. With both sides featuring prolific forwards and reliable goalkeepers, this fixture promises a balance of offensive flair and defensive discipline. The statistics point towards an open contest where both teams are likely to score, continuing the trend of high-scoring encounters between them.

Final Analysis and BetMines Prediction

Given the attacking form of both sides and their recent head-to-head history, another entertaining match is expected at Tynecastle. Hearts’ home advantage and unbeaten streak make them slight favourites, but Celtic’s offensive power ensures they remain a serious threat. The combination of strong attacking metrics and consistent scoring patterns from both teams suggests that goals will be shared on both ends of the pitch.

Heart of Midlothian vs Celtic prediction from BetMines: Both Teams To Score (Yes) with 60% probability.