In an electrifying encounter at Easter Road on February 22, 2025, Hibernian secured a thrilling 2-1 victory over Celtic, leaving the league leaders to grapple with disappointment following their recent Champions League exit. The match was characterized by early fervor as Hibs' midfielder Josh Campbell shocked Celtic with a precise strike just two minutes into the game. Seizing momentum, Campbell struck again in stoppage time of the first half, delivering a well-timed header from a Martin Boyle cross, doubling the home team's advantage.
With Celtic trailing, manager Brendan Rodgers made some strategic halftime changes, introducing three substitutes in an attempt to energize his side. The adjustments bore some fruit when Daizen Maeda managed to pull one back midway through the second half, sparking hope among the visiting fans. Tension peaked when Celtic seemed to score an equalizer through Jota, only for the goal to be ruled out after a VAR review determined the ball had crossed out of play during the buildup, a decision that stirred mixed reactions among spectators and players alike.
This result extended Hibernian's impressive unbeaten run in the league to 11 games, propelling them into the top-four contenders as they eye a strong finish to the season. On the other hand, although Celtic remains firmly at the top of the table with a 13-point cushion, this defeat marks their second stumble in the league campaign, serving as a reminder of the ever-present unpredictability of the Scottish Premiership.
For Hibs, the victory is a testament to their resilience and form under pressure, especially during such a crucial fixture. Campbell's outstanding performance has not only been pivotal in securing three points but has also highlighted his growing influence within the team. As the season progresses, both Celtic and Hibernian have much at stake, making every upcoming match a potential turning point in the fight for league accolades.