Hibernian fans face a dilemma as they may prefer their team to lose against Celtic on May 3, 2026, at Easter Road. This situation arises because a Celtic victory could allow them to catch up with Hearts in the Scottish Premiership title race.
Celtic is currently three points behind Hearts. If Celtic wins against Hibernian, they will level on points with their rivals. This outcome complicates Hibernian’s position, as they have not won a top-flight title since 1960, when Hearts last claimed the championship.
Key facts:
- Celtic could go level on points with Hearts if they win against Hibernian.
- Hibernian is six points behind Motherwell with four games remaining.
- David Gray is the head coach of Hibernian.
- Celtic has had three different managers this season.
David Gray remains optimistic about his team’s chances. He stated, “I still believe that we still have enough games to go that gives us a chance to try and finish fourth.” Yet, some fans express mixed feelings about the match’s significance in relation to Hearts’ title pursuit.
Euan Wilson, a local supporter, shared his thoughts: “If Hibs won the game, I’m not going to be disappointed, but yeah, it’s probably at this point in time in the season, not the worst outcome in the world for a Hibs fan if we weren’t to win…” This sentiment reflects the complex emotions surrounding this fierce football rivalry.
Quotes from analysts:
Martin O’Neill remarked, “It wouldn’t enter their heads,” referring to how players might approach the match despite fan sentiments. and Jamie Murray emphasized that rivalry fuels passion in football: “I think that’s expected, but at the end of the day, I think rivalry is kind of what makes football tick and makes it so passionate.”.
The match will be broadcast live on Sky Sports at 12pm. Fans can expect an intense atmosphere as both teams vie for their respective goals in this critical fixture of the Scottish Premiership.
