As the Scottish football calendar rolls into the depth of January 2026, all eyes turn to the Falkirk Community Stadium, where the Bairns are set to host Premiership stalwarts Hibernian on the 24th. This fixture, set for a 3:00 PM kick-off, carries more than just three points for both sides. For Falkirk, every home game against a top-flight opponent is a chance to prove their mettle and climb the league standings, while Hibernian will be eager to solidify their position in the upper echelons of the Premiership. With both teams likely keen to set a strong tone for the second half of the season, what tactical battles will unfold on the pitch, and which squad will ultimately prevail in this intriguing encounter?
Head-to-Head: A History of Spirited Contests
The historical rivalry between Falkirk and Hibernian has delivered its fair share of drama over the years. In their 35 recorded encounters, Hibernian holds the historical advantage. The Easter Road side has secured 15 victories, while Falkirk has managed 8 wins, with 12 matches ending in a draw.
Looking at their most recent meetings, the results paint a picture of competitive, often closely fought, contests:
- 12 July 2022: Falkirk 1-0 Hibernian (League Cup)
- 25 March 2017: Hibernian 2-1 Falkirk (Scottish Championship)
- 31 December 2016: Falkirk 1-2 Hibernian (Scottish Championship)
- 12 November 2016: Hibernian 1-1 Falkirk (Scottish Championship)
- 06 August 2016: Falkirk 1-2 Hibernian (Scottish Championship)
The last five competitive fixtures have seen Hibernian edge out Falkirk with three wins to one, alongside one draw. This historical context suggests that while Hibernian often comes out on top, Falkirk is more than capable of causing an upset, especially at home.
Current Form & Team News (Hypothetical for Jan 2026)
Disclaimer: As this match is scheduled for January 2026, the following section on current form and team news is speculative and based on typical football narratives, as real-time data for future events is unavailable.
Falkirk
The Bairns are expected to be battling hard in the Premiership, perhaps finding themselves in a mixed run of form coming into the new year. Their recent five matches might hypothetically look something like: (W-D-L-W-L). A crucial win at home, a battling draw away, but also a couple of tough defeats. This suggests a team that can perform well, especially at Falkirk Community Stadium, but might struggle for consistency against the league’s tougher opponents. They are often described as being in “mixed form”.
Team News: Falkirk might be buoyed by the return of a key midfielder, perhaps ‘Callum McGregor-esque’ in his ability to dictate play, who has recovered from a hamstring strain. However, a prominent defender could be sidelined due to an accumulation of yellow cards, leading to a suspension for this fixture. The manager might opt for a more experienced player to step in and sure up the backline.
Hibernian
Hibernian, typically pushing for European spots, would likely enter this match in strong, albeit possibly “mixed”, form, demonstrating their quality despite occasional slip-ups. Their last five outings could hypothetically be: (W-W-D-L-W). This run would indicate a robust side capable of grinding out results and demonstrating resilience. They are often described as “unbeatable” in some periods.
Team News: Hibs could be facing a minor injury crisis in their forward line, with their primary striker potentially nursing a knock, making him a doubt. This could open the door for a younger, pacey attacker to start, offering a different dimension upfront. A consistent winger, known for his assists, is expected to be fully fit and a significant threat on the flanks.
Tactical Preview
Falkirk, playing at home, are likely to adopt a proactive approach, possibly lining up in a 4-2-3-1 formation. Their strategy would focus on quick transitions and exploiting any spaces left by Hibernian’s attacking movements. The midfield battle will be crucial, with Falkirk’s central pairing needing to break up Hibs’ play and launch their own attacks. Their attacking threats will likely come from their wide players, who will aim to get crosses into the box for a lone striker or late runs from midfield. Defensive weaknesses might include susceptibility to counter-attacks if their full-backs push too high.
Hibernian, on the other hand, often employs a more possession-based 4-3-3 or a flexible 3-5-2, aiming to control the tempo of the game. Their midfield, even if missing key personnel, will look to dominate possession and supply their dynamic forward line. The attacking threat from Hibs will be multi-faceted, with intricate passing movements and powerful shots from outside the box. Defensively, they will rely on their experienced centre-backs to manage Falkirk’s aerial threat and quick wingers. Given the January timing, the Falkirk Community Stadium pitch could be heavy and potentially slippery, which might favour a more direct approach and robust tackling over intricate passing, potentially levelling the playing field for the home side.
