Celtic’s trip to Easter Road ended in disappointment as Brendan Rodgers’ side suffered a 2-1 defeat to Hibernian. Despite a spirited second-half fightback, an early double from Josh Campbell was enough to seal the points for the hosts.

Hibs Take Control Early

Celtic found themselves behind after just two minutes when Josh Campbell finished clinically past Kasper Schmeichel. A ball through the middle from Nectarios Triantis exposed Celtic’s defence, and Campbell made no mistake. The Hoops struggled to respond, and their problems deepened just before half-time when Campbell rose highest to nod home a Martin Boyle cross. The goal was initially ruled offside, but VAR overturned the decision, confirming a 2-0 lead for the hosts.

VAR Drama Denies Celtic a Lifeline

Brendan Rodgers made key changes at the break, introducing Jeffrey Schlupp, Jota, and Reo Hatate. Celtic found a way back into the game in the 68th minute when Daizen Maeda pounced on a mistake by Hibs goalkeeper Jordan Smith to slot home. The Hoops pushed for an equaliser and thought they had it when Maeda struck again in the 83rd minute, but VAR ruled the goal out after determining Alistair Johnston had allegedly taken the ball out of play before cutting it back.

Missed Chances and Late Frustration

Celtic continued to press in the closing stages, with Nicolas Kühn and Arne Engels both seeing efforts blocked, but Hibs defended resolutely. Eight minutes of stoppage time were added, but despite throwing everything forward, Rodgers’ men couldn’t find a way through.

Title Race Still in Command

Despite the defeat, Celtic remain 13 points clear at the top of the Scottish Premiership, with Rangers still trailing in second. While the performance was disappointing, the Hoops are still in a commanding position in the title race. Attention now turns to Aberdeen at Celtic Park on Tuesday night, where Celtic will look to bounce back and maintain their stronghold on the league.