Manager: We need to be ready for Hibernian challenge

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Celtic F.C.

·20 febbraio 2026

Manager: We need to be ready for Hibernian challenge

Celtic manager, Martin O’Neill has stressed that his side need to be prepared for the threat Hibernian will pose when the capital side visit the East End of Glasgow this Sunday.

The last time the Edinburgh side visited Celtic Park, a 0-0 draw was the outcome with the Hoops not only hitting the woodwork, but also finding Hibs’ keeper, Raphael Salinger in inspired form by denying the Celts on several occasions.

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That was followed up by a 2-1 win for the Celts at Easter Road with the Irishman in charge this time in his first spell with the club this campaign, and the Hoops’ goals coming in in quick succession from Daizen Maeda and Arne Engels.

Speaking to the media following the midweek UEFA Europa League game against VfB Stuttgart, the manager referenced the game back at Easter Road and last weekend’s win for Hibernian when they beat St Mirren 2-0, as well as the recent Edinburgh derby when they narrowly lost 1-0 to a late goal.

The Irishman said when asked what he expected from Hibernian: “Naturally, a very, very strong game.

“We played them earlier in my time, in my first spell here, and they caused us all sorts of problems in the game.

“They had a good win (against St Mirren), and I thought they played exceptionally well for long periods against Hearts as well.

“So, we need to be up for that challenge.”