Hibernian vs Celtic Prediction: 03.05.2026 Scottish Premiership

Edinburgh’s Easter Road hosts a key Scottish Premiership Championship clash as Hibernian face Celtic on May 3, 2026. Celtic enter this match in full control, riding a flawless winning streak. Hibernian, on the other hand, search for stability after a tough start to the Championship round. This fixture stands out due to the return of Martin O’Neill to the Celtic dugout and David Gray’s challenge to revive Hibs’ form. Eyes will naturally gravitate to Daizen Maeda for Celtic—his recent goal run makes him a menace. For Hibernian, Martin Boyle’s ability to influence transitions and produce big moments gives the hosts hope.

The “hot stat”: Celtic have scored 12 goals in their last five matches, three times more than Hibernian’s tally in the same period—a gap that is impossible to ignore given current forms.

Hibernian vs Celtic prediction

We predict a Celtic win. The difference in form and squad quality is stark. Celtic have won all of their last four matches, while Hibernian lost two of their last three. The bookmakers’ odds reinforce our stance, with Celtic seen as clear favorites. The visitors’ attack has been devastating—Maeda and Iheanacho both in sharp form—and their midfield controls possession with superior passing accuracy. Hibernian struggle to keep clean sheets, conceding in each of their last three outings. While a home crowd may galvanize Hibs briefly, Celtic’s momentum should prevail.

Both teams play with attacking intent, but Celtic are more efficient in converting chances, as reflected by their 58 total shots in the last five games. Hibernian’s higher foul count (26 vs Celtic’s 52, but across fewer matches) and a tendency to collect yellow cards (6 each in last five) could result in dangerous free-kick opportunities for the visitors. Celtic’s control of the ball and accuracy in passing—1355 successful passes in five games—will likely keep Hibernian chasing shadows, limiting their ability to threaten consistently.

Team Analysis

Hibernian’s most recent outing saw them fall 1-2 at home to Hearts. A bright start faded as defensive lapses cost them. Hibs managed 13 total shots and kept the ball moving with over 1000 passes in their last five, but finishing remains an issue. The prior match, a 0-2 defeat to Aberdeen, reinforced problems in both penalty areas—Hibs create chances, but often lack the composure to convert or the defensive discipline to hold leads. Martin Boyle’s energy and Felix Passlack’s versatility have been rare positives, but David Gray’s side face a stern test of character against Celtic.

Celtic approach this fixture in top gear after a 3-1 win against Falkirk. Their attack brims with confidence, as evidenced by 12 goals in five games and 58 total shots—a relentless approach. Maeda’s speed and finishing, supported by Iheanacho and creative midfielders like McGregor, make Celtic’s front line unpredictable. Defensively, they keep shape and rarely concede cheap fouls or cards, showing discipline and composure. Celtic’s passing network—over 1355 accurate passes in five matches—keeps them in control. O’Neill’s team look settled, cohesive, and relentless.

Most recent Head-to-Head Matches

🚨Check out our dedicated Hibernian vs Celtic stats page for more info.

Pre-game odds and win probability: Celtic the favourite

• Moneyline Hibernian 4.60 | Celtic 1.62
• Draw 4.36
• Over/Under Over 2.5 1.85 | Under 2.5 1.86
• BTTS (both teams to score) Yes 1.90 | No 1.90

Bookmakers have Celtic as clear favorites, with odds as low as 1.62 for the away win. Hibernian are priced at 4.60, reflecting their underdog status and inconsistent recent results. The draw sits around 4.36. The over/under markets are balanced, hinting at expectations for an open game—reflecting both sides’ attacking styles but also Celtic’s firepower. Both teams to score is near evens, suggesting some faith in Hibs’ ability to at least trouble the Celtic defense at home. Our view: the odds are fair given the gulf in form and squad depth.

Possible Starting Lineups

Hibernian possible starting eleven

This selection is shaped by recent appearances and contributions. Sallinger starts in goal for his consistency. The back four of O’Hora, Iredale, Bushiri, and Hanley brings both experience and strength. In midfield, Obita and Newell anchor play while Passlack and McGrath provide creativity. Boyle supports Suto up front, aiming to exploit Celtic’s high line. Hibs are likely to continue with a 4-2-3-1 formation to balance defense and attack. Watch for Boyle’s bursts and Passlack’s forward runs—both can unsettle defenses if allowed space.

Celtic possible starting eleven

Sinisalo is the clear pick in goal. The back three of Trusty, Scales, and Tierney gives a solid platform. Midfielders McGregor and Ralston bring passing quality and bite, McCowan and Saracchi offer width. Up front, Maeda and Iheanacho provide the main threat, with Yang Hyun-Jun adding pace and directness. Expect Celtic to line up in a flexible 3-4-1-2, maximizing their strength in central areas and unleashing their attackers. Maeda’s speed and finishing is a clear danger, while McGregor orchestrates play from deep.

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TipsGG Match Prediction

Celtic carry too much firepower and tactical discipline for Hibernian to contain over 90 minutes. We predict a 3-1 win for Celtic, with Maeda or Iheanacho likely to get on the scoresheet. Hibernian’s pressing may see them fashion a few chances, possibly enough for a consolation. Celtic’s superior passing and relentless attacking edge should settle this one. The bookmakers’ view aligns with our own: away win with over 2.5 goals is the value pick. Hibs may score, but Celtic’s confidence and sharpness in front of goal give them a decisive edge.

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