Celtic Aim to Rebound Against Hibernian After Champions League Disappointment

2025-03-02

Celtic will look to bounce back from their Champions League heartbreak as they face Hibernian in the Scottish Premiership this Saturday at Easter Road. The match, scheduled for a 12:30pm kick-off, comes just days after Celtic narrowly missed out on a historic victory against Bayern Munich, with Alphonso Davies scoring a last-minute equaliser to deny the Hoops a place in the next round.

Brendan Rodgers’ side remain firmly in control of the Scottish Premiership, boasting a 13-point lead over rivals Rangers. Celtic have been in strong domestic form, winning six of their last seven league matches, including three consecutive victories by an aggregate score of 12-1. They have also enjoyed recent success against Hibernian, winning their last two encounters at Easter Road.

Hibernian, however, have been in impressive form themselves, going 12 games unbeaten across all competitions since their 3-0 defeat to Celtic in early December. Nick Montgomery’s side have won five of their last six home matches, but face a tough task against the league leaders. Hibs will be without captain Joe Newell due to a groin injury, while January signing Alasana Manneh is suspended following his red card against St Mirren. Celtic loanee Kwon Hyeok-kyu is also ineligible to play against his parent club.

Celtic will be without midfielder Paulo Bernardo due to an ankle injury, while James Forrest has returned to training but is unlikely to feature. Rodgers may make changes to his starting lineup, with potential recalls for players such as Anthony Ralston and Greg Taylor.

The match will be broadcast live on Premier Sports 2, with coverage starting at 12pm. Fans can also stream the game via the Premier Sports website and app. Highlights will be available on BBC Sportscene from 7:15pm.

Hibernian will be hoping to continue their unbeaten run and close the gap on the top four, but Celtic remain strong favourites to secure another victory as they edge closer to a record-equalling 55th Scottish Premiership title.