The Scottish Premiership continues this weekend with an exciting clash between Hibernian and Celtic. The visitors are still chasing the title, sitting second in the table with 70 points after 34 matches, while Hibernian are fifth, looking to close the gap to the European qualification spots. Both sides have plenty to play for, and this encounter at Easter Road promises to be a key moment in their respective campaigns.

Hibernian’s Recent Form and Key Stats

Hibernian come into this match after a 1-2 defeat against Hearts on April 26, a result that extended their inconsistent run. In their last five matches, they have recorded one win, two draws, and two losses, averaging 0.8 goals scored and 0.8 conceded per game. Despite this mixed form, their overall season record of 13 wins, 12 draws, and 9 losses shows a balanced campaign with an average of 1.5 goals scored and 1.2 conceded per match.

Playing at home has been a source of strength for Hibernian. They have lost only once in their last ten Premiership matches at Easter Road, winning six and drawing three. Interestingly, they have led at half time in six of those ten home games, showing their ability to start matches strongly. However, their challenge will be to maintain that intensity against one of the league’s most consistent sides.

In terms of scoring patterns, under 0.5 total goals have been recorded in only two of their last ten home matches, suggesting that their games tend to produce goals. Yet, their head-to-head record against Celtic remains a concern: in the last five meetings, Hibernian have managed just one win and one draw, losing three times and averaging only 0.8 goals per match while conceding 1.6.

Celtic’s Recent Form and Key Stats

Celtic remain firmly in the title race, having beaten Falkirk 3-1 on April 25 to extend their unbeaten run to four matches. Over their last five fixtures, they have collected three wins, one draw, and one defeat, averaging 1.6 goals scored and 1.2 conceded. Their season record of 22 wins, 4 draws, and 8 losses underlines their attacking strength, with an average of 1.8 goals per game and a solid defensive record of 1.1 goals conceded per match.

The visitors have been particularly effective in the first half of matches, winning at half time in each of their last four games, including three consecutive league fixtures. Moreover, over 0.5 goals have been scored in the first half of 21 of their last 22 Premiership matches, reflecting their fast-paced starts and attacking intent.

On the road, Celtic have been difficult to beat, losing just once in their last ten away games. However, they have only managed two wins in their last five away fixtures, showing that while they are resilient, they sometimes struggle to turn dominance into victories. In their last four visits to Easter Road, they have kept just one clean sheet, which could make this encounter another open contest.

Hibernian vs Celtic Tactical Overview and Prediction

This fixture has historically favored Celtic, who have won seven of the last ten meetings between the sides. However, Hibernian’s strong home form and ability to score regularly at Easter Road suggest that the hosts will not make things easy. They have found the net in three of their last four encounters with Celtic and will aim to exploit any defensive lapses from the visitors.

For Celtic, the stakes are high as they continue their pursuit of the league leaders. Their attacking rhythm and consistent first-half performances make them favorites, but their recent away record indicates that they may need to work hard to secure all three points. Hibernian’s defensive discipline at home could limit Celtic’s scoring opportunities, yet the visitors’ superior quality and motivation to stay in the title race might prove decisive.

Given the trends, this match could feature goals at both ends. Hibernian’s home scoring consistency and Celtic’s attacking momentum point towards an entertaining contest where both teams are likely to find the net. However, the visitors’ experience and depth could tilt the balance in their favor.

Hibernian vs Celtic prediction by BetMines:
Celtic win (2) with a probability of 42%.