As the Scottish Premiership season progresses, the anticipation builds for a pivotal clash at Celtic Park on February 21, 2026. League leaders Celtic are set to host Hibernian in a match that carries significant weight for both sides. For the Bhoys, managed by Brendan Rodgers, it’s another crucial step in their relentless pursuit of domestic glory and potentially extending their lead at the top of the table. For Hibernian, under the guidance of David Gray, this fixture represents a stern test and a golden opportunity to upset the odds, strengthen their push for European qualification, and prove their mettle against the reigning champions. The atmosphere at Celtic Park, renowned for its intensity, will undoubtedly add another layer of drama to what promises to be an engaging encounter. Will Celtic’s dominance continue, or can Hibernian spring a surprise and disrupt the title race?
Head-to-Head History
The rivalry between Celtic and Hibernian has a rich history, with numerous captivating encounters over the years. In their previous 76 meetings across all competitions since 2003, Celtic have emerged victorious 49 times, while Hibernian have secured 10 wins, and 17 matches have ended in a draw. Looking at a slightly more recent snapshot, in 39 meetings, Celtic have won 23, Hibernian 5, and 11 have been drawn, with Celtic scoring 83 goals to Hibernian’s 36.
Recent Results (Last 5 Premiership Meetings as of late 2025):
- May 10, 2025: Celtic 3 – 1 Hibernian
- March 9, 2025: Celtic 2 – 0 Hibernian
- February 22, 2025: Hibernian 2 – 1 Celtic
- December 7, 2024: Celtic 3 – 0 Hibernian
- August 18, 2024: Celtic 3 – 1 Hibernian
These results highlight Celtic’s strong historical performance against Hibernian, especially at home, though Hibernian did manage a notable 2-1 victory in February 2025.
Current Form & Team News (Based on 2024/2025-2025/2026 Season Trends)
Celtic
Celtic have shown excellent form in the current Premiership season (2025/2026), sitting at the top of the table with an impressive record of 4 wins, 1 draw, and 0 losses in their last 5 league matches, demonstrating an 80% win rate. Their home form has been particularly formidable, boasting 2 wins and 0 losses in their initial home fixtures. They have scored 8 goals and conceded only 1 in their last 5 league games.
Under Brendan Rodgers, Celtic’s squad depth and quality are consistently high. Key players like Daizen Maeda, who was the PFA Scotland Player of the Year for 2024/25, amassed 33 goals and 12 assists in 51 games across all competitions that season, and continued to be a top scorer in the 2025/26 season with 16 goals. Nicolas Kühn also contributed significantly with 24 goals and 18 assists overall, and 7 goals and 4 assists by mid-2025. Captain Callum McGregor remains a vital cog in midfield. Barring any unforeseen injuries closer to the match date, Celtic is expected to field a strong, experienced line-up.
Hibernian
Hibernian’s form in the 2025/2026 Premiership season has been good overall, with 1 win, 4 draws, and 0 losses in their last 5 matches, placing them 4th in the table. While their home form includes 3 draws and 0 losses, their away form shows 1 win and 1 draw. They have scored 10 goals in the Premiership this season. Their recent form is noted as L-W-D-D-L across all competitions based on some sources.
Under manager David Gray, Hibernian’s key players include Martin Boyle, who was their top scorer in the 2024/25 season with 20 goals across all competitions and 15 in the league. Kieron Bowie and Jamie McGrath have also been prominent figures, contributing with goals and assists respectively in the current season. The team aims to maintain a solid defensive structure while looking for opportunities to leverage their attacking talents.
Tactical Preview
Celtic
Celtic, under Brendan Rodgers, typically employ a possession-based, attacking style of play, often utilizing a 4-3-3 or a 4-2-3-1 formation. Their approach emphasizes patient build-up play, high pressing, and quick transitions. The midfield, often marshaled by Callum McGregor, is crucial for dictating the tempo and supplying the potent attacking line. Daizen Maeda’s pace and goal-scoring ability, alongside the creativity of players like Nicolas Kühn, will be key attacking threats. Celtic’s defensive solidity is also a hallmark, conceding very few goals in recent league outings. They aim to dominate the flanks and exploit any defensive gaps through intricate passing and movement.
Hibernian
Hibernian, managed by David Gray, have shown tactical flexibility, sometimes deploying a 3-4-2-1 or 4-3-3 formation. Their style often involves a combative midfield and a willingness to counter-attack with pace. Key to their offensive strategy will be the experienced Martin Boyle, whose goal-scoring prowess and ability to run in behind defenses are invaluable. Midfielders like Jamie McGrath and Nicky Cadden are important for both ball progression and defensive duties. Hibs will likely focus on containing Celtic’s attacking prowess, aiming to disrupt their rhythm in midfield and launch swift counter-attacks, making the midfield battle a crucial aspect of this match.
External Factors
Given the match is in late February in Scotland, weather conditions could play a role. Cold temperatures, potential rain, or even wind could affect the pace and technical quality of the game, potentially favoring a more physical approach. However, as it’s at Celtic Park, the pitch quality is generally excellent and should allow for fluid football.
