Celtic once again proved why they are the reigning champions of Scottish football with a resounding 3-1 comeback win over Hibernian at Celtic Park. This victory not only showcased their grit and determination but also extended their seemingly insurmountable lead at the top of the Scottish Premiership table.
Hibernian gave Celtic a scare early on, but the Hoops’ quality shone through in the end, underlining their dominance in the league this season. Here’s a detailed account of the match and what it means for both teams.
Hibernian’s Bright Start
The game began with a surprising intensity from Hibernian, who were determined to make their mark against the league leaders. Right from the kickoff, Hibs pressed high, forcing Celtic into uncharacteristic errors in possession.
In the 12th minute, Hibernian’s efforts paid off when Élie Youan capitalized on a defensive lapse. Celtic’s Carl Starfelt misjudged a long ball, allowing Youan to sprint through and slot the ball past Joe Hart. The visitors were ahead, and the Celtic Park crowd fell silent.
Hibernian’s lead injected confidence into their play, with their midfield duo of Joe Newell and Jake Doyle-Hayes dictating the tempo. Meanwhile, Celtic seemed rattled, struggling to find their usual rhythm.
However, the champions gradually grew into the game. Kyogo Furuhashi and Jota combined well up front, testing the Hibs defense with quick interchanges. Hibernian goalkeeper David Marshall was called into action in the 27th minute, diving low to deny a curling effort from Reo Hatate.
Despite their growing dominance, Celtic couldn’t find an equalizer before halftime, and Hibernian went into the break with a narrow lead.
Celtic’s Response
Celtic manager Ange Postecoglou clearly delivered a rousing halftime team talk, as the Hoops emerged from the dressing room with renewed vigor. The home side immediately took control, pinning Hibernian deep in their half.
The equalizer came in the 50th minute through Kyogo Furuhashi. The Japanese striker showcased his predatory instincts, latching onto a rebound after Jota’s initial shot was parried by Marshall. Furuhashi’s calm finish ignited the Celtic faithful, who roared their team back into the game.
With momentum firmly on their side, Celtic pushed for a second goal. Their relentless pressure paid off in the 64th minute when Jota delivered a pinpoint cross from the left flank. Matt O’Riley rose highest in the box to head the ball into the net, giving Celtic a 2-1 lead.
Hibernian, who had defended resolutely in the first half, began to tire under the relentless waves of Celtic attacks. Postecoglou’s side continued to dominate possession, with Callum McGregor orchestrating play from midfield.
Sealing the Victory
Celtic’s third goal arrived in the 78th minute, effectively putting the game to bed. Substitute Liel Abada, who had been lively since coming on, dribbled past two defenders on the right wing before delivering a low cross into the box. Furuhashi, once again, was in the right place at the right time, tapping in his second goal of the game.
The final stages of the match saw Celtic maintain their control, passing the ball around confidently and denying Hibernian any chance of a comeback. The final whistle was met with jubilant celebrations from the home crowd, as their team notched yet another victory in their impressive campaign.
Post-Match Reactions
- Ange Postecoglou (Celtic Manager)
Postecoglou praised his team’s resilience and ability to bounce back after a challenging first half:
“Hibs gave us a tough test, especially in the first half, but the boys showed great character to turn it around. That’s what champions do—we rise to the challenge and find a way to win.”
- Lee Johnson (Hibernian Manager)
Despite the loss, Hibernian manager Lee Johnson remained positive about his team’s performance:
“We started well and showed we can compete with the best. It’s disappointing to lose, but there are plenty of positives to take from this game.”
- Kyogo Furuhashi (Celtic Forward)
Kyogo, who was instrumental in Celtic’s comeback with two goals, shared his thoughts:
“It’s always special to score in front of our fans. The team worked hard for this win, and I’m happy to contribute. We’ll keep pushing until the end of the season.”
Key Performers
Celtic
- Kyogo Furuhashi: The Japanese striker was clinical in front of goal, scoring twice and constantly threatening the Hibernian defense.
- Jota: The Portuguese winger was a constant source of creativity, providing the assist for O’Riley’s goal and troubling Hibs with his dribbling.
- Callum McGregor: The captain controlled the midfield, ensuring Celtic dictated the tempo of the game.
Hibernian
- Élie Youan: Hibs’ goal scorer was a lively presence in the first half, using his pace to trouble Celtic’s backline.
- David Marshall: The veteran goalkeeper made several key saves to keep Hibernian in the game.
- Joe Newell: Worked tirelessly in midfield, particularly in the first half when Hibernian were on the front foot.
Implications for the Title Race
This win further cements Celtic’s dominance in the Scottish Premiership. Their lead at the top of the table is now virtually unassailable, and the team looks set to lift yet another league title. Postecoglou’s side has combined attacking flair with defensive solidity, making them the benchmark for other teams in the league.
For Hibernian, the defeat is a setback, but their spirited performance against the champions suggests they have the potential to compete for European spots in the coming seasons.
Celtic’s focus now shifts to their remaining fixtures and preparations for European competition. With the league title all but secured, Postecoglou may use the remaining games to give younger players more opportunities while ensuring the squad stays sharp.
Hibernian, meanwhile, will look to bounce back in their next match as they aim to finish the season strongly. Lee Johnson will undoubtedly take the positives from this game as he continues to build his team for the future.
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