Celtic’s Dominant Display: A 3-0 Thrashing of Hibernian

Celtic Park was electric as the Hoops extended their unbeaten home run with a comprehensive 3-0 victory over Hibernian. The Scottish champions’ relentless attacking play and Kasper Schmeichel’s goalkeeping heroics proved too much for the visitors to handle.

The first half was an intriguing affair, with Hibs starting brightly, only to be thwarted by Schmeichel’s inspired form. The Danish goalkeeper made crucial saves, including a standout block on Mykola Kuharevich, who was played through on goal. This early chance proved costly for Hibs, as Celtic capitalized quickly. A slick move down the right saw Nicolas Kühn link up with Alistair Johnston, who delivered a perfectly timed ball into the box. Arne Engels, making his return to the starting 11, was there to tap it home and give Celtic the lead.

Despite the Hoops’ dominance, they couldn’t shake the feeling that they could have been further ahead. Adam Idah presented with a golden opportunity to double Celtic’s advantage, but missed an open goal from just three yards out. The home support was left in disbelief. Callum McGregor was pulling the strings in midfield, while Alistair Johnston and Greg Taylor pushed forward with intent. Hibs were left kicking themselves, especially after Joe Newell blasted yet another golden opportunity over the bar.

The visitors’ wastefulness meant they were fortunate to be just a goal down at the break. Celtic remained firmly in control, with Brendan Rodgers’ tactics and team selection paying dividends.

The second half saw Celtic come out with renewed purpose. Rodgers made a tactical switch at the break, bringing on James Forrest for Nicolas Kühn. The change injected extra creativity, as Celtic immediately regained control, pinning Hibs deep into their half. A string of corners and close chances led to the breakthrough in the 54th minute. Adam Idah’s header from a Luke McCowan delivery came off Hibs captain Joe Newell and into the net for an own goal, doubling Celtic’s lead.

The Hoops continued to threaten, with several chances following the goal. Alistair Johnston was put through on goal but opted to shoot rather than square the ball to a waiting Idah, missing the opportunity to seal the game. Schmeichel’s heroics and Hibs’ missed opportunities meant the scoreline remained 2-0.

As the match approached its closing stages, Celtic added a third, and what a goal it was. In the 84th minute, James Forrest played a perfectly-weighted through ball to Kyogo Furuhashi, who controlled it with ease before dinking it over Hibs’ keeper Jordan Smith. It was a finish of the highest quality from the Japanese forward, his eighth goal of the campaign.

The game was well and truly over, and the Hoops’ superiority had been firmly confirmed. Celtic’s depth and fresh legs kept Hibs at bay, with Paulo Bernardo and Reo Hatate introduced to ensure the Hoops kept control in midfield.

The final whistle blew, and the 3-0 scoreline accurately reflected Celtic’s dominance. Though it didn’t tell the full story of Hibs’ missed chances, the Hoops showed why they remain untouchable in Scotland. This win not only keeps Celtic top of the table but also sets them up nicely for their Champions League clash against Dinamo Zagreb.

Brendan Rodgers’ continued rotation and squad management have been key to Celtic’s success. The team’s attacking class, coupled with Schmeichel’s goalkeeping heroics, ensured a deserved victory. As the season unfolds, Celtic’s squad depth and versatility will be crucial in determining their title prospects.

In the end, Celtic’s clinical performance was a testament to their growing strength and resilience. The Hoops’ fans will be eagerly anticipating their upcoming Champions League clash, knowing their team is primed for another successful season.