Celtic vs Hibernian: Match Preview and Predicted Lineup

Celtic vs Hibernian: A Clash of Titans

Celtic heads to Edinburgh this Sunday for a high-stakes match against Hibernian. With the Hoops currently holding second place in the Scottish Premiership table and a mere three points off the leaders, Hearts, this encounter is a must-win. As the season nears its climax, the pressure intensifies for every result to count.

“In football, every single point can be the difference between glory and heartbreak. Celtic knows this all too well.”

Celtic's Recent Form

Martin O'Neill's side comes into this fixture with a surge of confidence, boasting a strong domestic performance. They have won their last three outings, including a commanding 6-2 victory against St Mirren in the cup, followed by a solid 3-1 win over Falkirk in the league. This momentum could prove vital as they approach the business end of the season.

Injury Concerns and Squad Update

However, it's not all smooth sailing for the Hoops. They are grappling with multiple injury concerns that could impact their lineup:

• Kasper Schmeichel remains sidelined with a shoulder injury.
• Viljami Sinisalo is expected to step up as the first choice in goal.
• Defenders Cameron Carter-Vickers and Julian Araujo are also out with injuries.

In the attacking third, Jota and Colby Donovan are sidelined, along with Callum Osmand and Adam Montgomery, all expected to miss the encounter. On a brighter note, Alistair Johnston has made a return to training and could feature from the bench.

Predicted Lineup

Taking their current form and injury list into account, here is what I anticipate to be the Celtic starting XI:

Goalkeeper: Sinisalo
Defenders: Ralston, Trusty, Scales, Tierney
Midfield: McGregor, Engels
Forwards: Forrest, Nygren, Hyun-Jun; Maeda

The Stakes are High

Celtic enters Easter Road knowing every moment on the pitch could tilt the title race in their favor. The fans will undoubtedly bring the heat, as they always do, creating an electrifying atmosphere.

Match Timing and Viewing Options

The match kicks off at 12pm BST on Sunday, the 3rd of May, and fans in the UK can catch the action live on Sky Sports Main Event and Sky Sports Football. Make sure to tune in and support the Hoops as they aim to keep pace in the title race!

Final Thoughts

This is more than just another fixture; it's a showdown that could dictate which way the title tilts come the end of the season. Both teams have everything on the line, making Sunday's match a must-watch.