Hearts vs Celtic Prediction: Celtic to prove their quality at Tynecastle Park

Hearts, currently in the 3rd position, will face off against Celtic, holding the 2nd spot, at Tynecastle Park. While Celtic strives for league victory, Hearts seem destined for a secure 3rd-place finish at the end of the season. Let's delve into a comprehensive match preview, also exploring potential betting opportunities.

Hearts heads into this match following a 1-1 draw against Hibernian in the Premiership. In that game, Hearts held 56% possession, took 14 attempts on goal, and managed 2 shots on target. Lawrence Shankland (45') was the sole scorer for Hearts, while Emiliano Marcondes (28') scored for Hibernian, who had 21 attempts on goal, 5 of which were on target.

Recent matches involving Hearts have been characterized by lively encounters with an expectation of high-scoring affairs. In their last 6 games, a total of 20 goals have been scored, averaging 3.33 goals per game, with Hearts contributing 12 goals to that tally. Additionally, Hearts goes into this encounter with an undefeated record in their last 6 home league matches.

Celtic enters this game on the back of a commanding 7-1 victory over Dundee in the Premiership. In that match, Celtic dominated with 75% possession, registering 17 shots on goal, 10 of which were on target. The scorers for Celtic included Cameron Carter-Vickers (7'), Adam Idah (18'), Matt O'Riley (22'), Daizen Maeda (30'), Greg Taylor (36'), Callum McGregor (45'), and Daniel Kelly (63'). Dundee managed 9 shots with 2 on target, and Michael Mellon (84') scored for them.

Celtic's defense has been consistent, conceding only 4 goals in their last 6 outings, while they have netted 10 goals during the same period. Notably, Celtic has remained undefeated against Hearts in their last 4 away league games and has maintained an unbeaten record in their previous 5 away league matches.

Reviewing their previous head-to-head encounters dating back to 22/10/2022, it is evident that Hearts emerged victorious in one game, while Celtic secured victories in five matches, with no draws recorded. These contests were marked by an abundance of goals, totaling 23, averaging at 3.83 goals per meeting. The most recent league fixture between the two teams took place on Premiership match day 18 on 16/12/2023, concluding with a scoreline of Celtic 0-2 Hearts.

Hearts, once a top-performing side, now find themselves up against another formidable opponent in Celtic. After a recent defeat to Rangers, Hearts are likely to approach this match with a focus on strengthening their defense, especially considering Celtic's impressive performance of scoring seven goals against Dundee midweek. Anticipating a high-quality display from both teams, I believe they are capable of scoring, but considering Celtic's current form, superior quality, and greater need for the victory, my prediction leans towards them securing the win.