One of the most exciting fixtures in Scottish football is the clash between Celtic F.C. and Hibernian F.C., two of the top clubs in the Scottish Premiership. As both teams prepare for their next meeting, anticipation builds as fans look forward to a thrilling encounter. This match brings together two teams with rich histories and passionate fan bases, each with their own strengths and ambitions. In this article, we will provide an in-depth look at the lineups for the upcoming Celtic vs Hibernian match, based on the latest information available. Along with the lineups, we will explore the strategies, key players to watch, and much more that fans are eager to know about. By the end of this article, you will have a clear understanding of what to expect from the two teams in this highly anticipated Scottish Premiership clash.

Introduction to Celtic F.C. and Hibernian F.C.

Before we delve into the lineups and match preview, it’s important to understand the history and current form of both Celtic F.C. and Hibernian F.C., as this context will help in understanding their respective lineups and tactics.

Celtic F.C.: A Dominant Force in Scottish Football

Celtic F.C., founded in 1887, is one of Scotland’s most successful and popular football clubs. Based in Glasgow, the club has a storied history filled with domestic and international triumphs. With a record number of Scottish Premiership titles, Scottish Cups, and League Cups, Celtic is one of the biggest clubs in Scotland. The team’s iconic green and white colors are recognized worldwide, and their home ground, Celtic Park, is one of the most passionate football stadiums in Europe.

Under the management of Brendan Rodgers, Celtic has been a dominant force in Scottish football. Rodgers returned to the club after a successful first stint and has been working to keep Celtic at the top of Scottish football, as well as achieving success in European competitions. Celtic is known for its attacking football, possession-based game, and high pressing, with players like Kyogo Furuhashi, Reo Hatate, and Jota playing pivotal roles in their offensive strategies.

Hibernian F.C.: A Historic Club with Ambition

Hibernian F.C., based in Edinburgh, is another club with a rich history in Scottish football. Founded in 1875, the team has a loyal fan base and a strong tradition in Scottish football. Although Hibernian may not have achieved the same level of success as Celtic in terms of league titles, the club has been a consistent presence in the Premiership and has enjoyed success in domestic cup competitions. Easter Road, Hibernian’s home ground, is known for its vibrant atmosphere, especially during high-profile matches.

Hibernian’s recent history has seen a mixture of mid-table finishes and cup runs, with the club looking to push for the European spots in the league and challenge for trophies. Under Lee Johnson, who took charge of the club in 2021, Hibernian has focused on a balanced approach, emphasizing both attacking football and solid defensive organization. The club’s goals have been to improve upon its past performances and consistently challenge the top teams in the league.

Key Players to Watch in Celtic F.C. vs Hibernian F.C.

As we preview the lineups for this exciting match, it’s important to identify some key players from both teams who are expected to play crucial roles.

Celtic F.C. Key Players

Kyogo Furuhashi (Striker): The Japanese forward has been in scintillating form for Celtic. Known for his intelligent movement, pace, and clinical finishing, Kyogo is a constant threat in the box. His ability to score goals and link up with teammates makes him one of Celtic’s most valuable players.

Jota (Winger): The Portuguese winger has been exceptional since joining Celtic on loan, and his performances have made him a fan favorite. Jota is known for his flair, dribbling skills, and ability to provide key assists. His creativity on the ball will be vital for Celtic’s attacking play.

Callum McGregor (Midfielder): The Celtic captain is the heartbeat of the team. A midfield dynamo, McGregor’s ability to break up opposition attacks, control possession, and dictate the tempo of the game makes him indispensable for Celtic. His leadership will be crucial as they look to dominate the midfield against Hibernian.

Cameron Carter-Vickers (Centre-back): The American defender has been a standout performer for Celtic since his arrival. Strong, composed, and excellent in aerial duels, Carter-Vickers provides stability to Celtic’s defense. His ability to deal with aerial threats and physical forwards will be key in this match.

Joe Hart (Goalkeeper): The experienced English goalkeeper is a steady presence in goal for Celtic. His shot-stopping ability, command of the penalty area, and leadership at the back make him a key player for Celtic in this match.

Hibernian F.C. Key Players

Kevin Nisbet (Striker): The Scottish striker is one of Hibernian’s key attacking threats. Nisbet is known for his clinical finishing and ability to find space in the box. His link-up play with his teammates will be essential if Hibernian is to challenge Celtic’s defense.

Martin Boyle (Winger): The Australian winger is Hibernian’s primary source of width and creativity. Boyle’s pace and ability to beat defenders make him a dangerous player on the counter-attack. He will be vital in stretching Celtic’s defense and providing crosses into the box for Nisbet and other attackers.

Joe Newell (Midfielder): Newell is an influential figure in the middle of the park for Hibernian. His ability to control possession, pass accurately, and break up opposition attacks will be vital as Hibernian tries to compete with Celtic in midfield. Newell’s work rate and vision make him one to watch.

Paul Hanlon (Centre-back): The experienced defender is one of Hibernian’s most consistent performers at the back. His leadership, defensive organization, and ability to read the game will be crucial in containing Celtic’s attacking players.

David Marshall (Goalkeeper): The veteran goalkeeper brings a wealth of experience to the Hibernian side. Marshall’s shot-stopping ability and leadership in organizing the defense will be important as Hibernian looks to keep Celtic at bay.

Tactical Setup and Strategies for Both Teams

Celtic F.C. Tactical Approach

Celtic is known for their high-tempo, possession-based style of play. Under Brendan Rodgers, they typically set up in a 4-3-3 formation, with an emphasis on controlling possession and attacking through the wings. The team often plays a high defensive line and presses aggressively when they lose possession, aiming to win the ball back as quickly as possible.

In attack, Celtic looks to exploit the pace of Jota and Kyogo Furuhashi, using their dynamic movement to create space and opportunities. The full-backs, Greg Taylor and Alistair Johnston, are also key to their attacking play, frequently overlapping and delivering dangerous crosses into the box.

Celtic will likely dominate possession and will look to break down Hibernian’s defense with quick passing and fluid attacking play. With Callum McGregor in midfield, they will have a player who can dictate the tempo and launch attacks with his excellent vision and passing range.

Hibernian F.C. Tactical Approach

Hibernian’s approach is likely to be more cautious, focusing on defensive stability and exploiting the counter-attack. Under Lee Johnson, they generally set up in a 4-4-2 or 4-2-3-1 formation, depending on the opponent and the game situation. Hibernian’s defensive shape will be compact, with the midfield working hard to track Celtic’s attacking players and limit space in the final third.

On the counter-attack, Hibernian will look to use the pace of Martin Boyle and the hold-up play of Kevin Nisbet to create chances. Hibernian will need to be clinical in their attacking transitions, as they will likely have fewer opportunities to possess the ball against Celtic’s high press.

Hibernian will also look to be dangerous on set pieces, with players like Paul Hanlon and Rocky Bushiri being threats in the air. Defensively, they will need to be disciplined and organized, as Celtic’s attacking play is fluid and constantly in motion.

FAQs

What formation did Celtic FC use against Hibernian FC?

Celtic FC employed a 4-3-3 formation, featuring four defenders, three midfielders, and three forwards. This setup allowed for a balanced approach, with a solid defensive line and dynamic attacking options.

What formation did Hibernian FC use against Celtic FC?

Hibernian FC utilized a 4-4-2 formation, featuring four defenders, four midfielders, and two forwards. This formation provided a solid defensive structure while allowing for attacking flexibility. 

What was the result of the match between Celtic FC and Hibernian FC on December 7, 2024?

The match concluded with a 3-0 victory for Celtic FC. Goals were scored by Axel Engels (6′), an own goal by Hibernian’s Joe Newell (54′), and Daizen Maeda (84′).

In Summary

As the match approaches, fans of both Celtic and Hibernian are excited to see how their teams will perform. Celtic is favored to win this match, given their superior squad depth and attacking strength, but Hibernian has the potential to cause an upset with their solid defensive organization and quick counter-attacking play. The key to success for both teams will be how well they can execute their tactical strategies and manage the pressure throughout the game.

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