Hibernian 1-2 Celtic: Super sub Iheanacho boosts visitors´ title hopes

Celtic moved level on points with Scottish Premiership leaders Hearts, after Kelechi Iheanacho climbed off the bench to snatch a narrow 2-1 win over 10-man Hibernian.

With Hearts not playing until Monday, the Hoops managed to capitalise with Iheanacho settling a nervy clash at Easter Road, where Joe Newell had cancelled out Daizen Maeda’s earlier effort.

Hibernian were reduced to 10 men in the 21st minute, with Jamie McGrath given his marching orders following a VAR review, for a late sliding challenge on Alistair Johnston.

The VAR intervened again as Celtic took the lead after 41 minutes. Maeda’s finish from a Johnston cross was eventually awarded after he was initially denied by the offside flag.

However, Hibs responded in first-half stoppage time, as Newell turned the ball in after Celtic goalkeeper Viljami Sinisalo failed to deal with a corner.

Martin O’Neill introduced Iheanacho in the 70th minute as Celtic searched for a winner. The substitute obliged within two minutes, controlling a flicked corner on his chest and steering home to seal a crucial three points in the Hoops’ title quest.

Job done in the Capital.
#HIBCEL | #CelticFCpic.twitter.com/s7CTuAvV9g

— Celtic Football Club (@CelticFC) May 3, 2026

Data Debrief: Hibs see red once more

Hibernian have seen four players sent off in their last three Scottish Premiership matches, receiving more red cards than they did in their previous 59 games combined.

Celtic have now won four of their last five SPL matches at Easter Road, more than in their previous 15 visits (W3 D8 L4).

As for Hibs, they have suffered three straight SPL defeats for the first time since October 2024, despite Newell ending his near 18-month wait for a goal in the division.