Preview: Hibernian vs Celtic - prediction, team news, lineups

Hibernian vs Celtic Match Preview

The Scottish Premiership match between Hibernian and Celtic is set to be competitive, with both teams showing notable form this season. Hibernian currently sits 4th in the league, while Celtic is in 2nd place, narrowly chasing the leader Hearts.

Team News and Lineups

Hibernian Possible Starting Lineup (4-4-2)

Goalkeeper: Raphael Sallinger
Defenders: Warren O'Hora, Rocky Bushiri, Jordan Obita, Chris Cadden
Midfielders: Josh Mulligan, Daniel Barlaser, Nathaniel Cadden, Paul McGrath
Forwards: Christian Doidge, Martin Boyle

Injuries are affecting Hibernian's options, with Alasana Manneh, Josh Campbell, and Rudi Molotnikov unavailable due to injury alongside Hanley being sidelined.

Celtic Possible Starting Lineup (4-3-3)

Goalkeeper: Schmeichel
Defenders: Anthony Ralston, Carter-Vickers (or Trusty), Scales, Kieran Tierney
Midfielders: Cameron McGregor, Hatate, Juran McGregor (possibly Engels)
Forwards: Kyogo Furuhashi (or McCowan), Daizen Maeda, Hyun-Jun

Celtic is relatively strong, with a few injury concerns but expected to field a potent attacking lineup.

Current League Standings Context

Hearts leads with 31 points from 14 games.
Celtic holds 29 points from 13 games.
Hibernian has 21 points from 15 games.

This positioning emphasizes the importance of the match for both clubs in keeping their top league ambitions alive.

Summary

This fixture promises tactical battles and high stakes as Celtic seeks to close the gap on Hearts, while Hibernian aims to consolidate its position among the league's best. Injuries may impact Hibs more significantly, but home advantage could be crucial.

"Hibernian are expected to remain without Alasana Manneh, Josh Campbell and Rudi Molotnikov due to injury problems, while Hanley will also be sidelined"
— Sports Mole

"Celtic line-up features usual attacking threats with Schmeichel in goal and Tierney on the left, set to test Hibernian's defense."
— Sports Gambler

Author's summary: The upcoming Hibernian vs Celtic match is pivotal in the Scottish Premiership, with team injury impacts and league standings adding significant intrigue to the contest.

Sports Mole — 2025-11-28