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Euro adventure ends for Hibs after thrilling draw in Warsaw

Legia Warsaw 3 Hibernian 3 (After extra time, Legia win 5-4 on aggregate) An extra-time winner ensured Legia Warsaw’s progression to the Europa Conference League at the expense of Hibernian. David Gray’s side were beaten 2-1 in Leith last Thursday, but started the match well with Warren O’Hora managed the first shot on target in the opening minutes. Despite a settling start for the Hibees, Vahan Bichakhchyan’s powerful drive put Legia in front. The strike put clear daylight between the teams and was a gutting blow for the Edinburgh men. The goal helped the Poles grow into the game; further efforts from Rafal Augustyniak were both well saved by Jordan Smith, keeping the lead to one. Gray’s boys are a very different beast to the team that won just two of their opening 16 Scottish Premiership games at the start of last season. An outstanding second-half display highlighted the levels that Hibs have reached since that horror period. Rocky Bushiri sparked hopes five minutes into the second half, heading home Nicky Cadden’s in-swinging cross to equalise on the night. Then they levelled the tie in the 59th minute, after Martin Boyle powered home Bushiri’s clever setup. They incredibly added a third in the 61st minute, as substitute Miguel Chaiwa accelerated into the Legia and unleashed a brilliant finish across the goal. An outstanding 11-minute period saw the visitors flip the script on this tie. Scottish teams are not supposed to perform in this manner on the European stage; yet remarkably, they were just half an hour away from qualifying for the Europa Conference League. Hibs thought they were down to ten men after Junior Hoilett was dismissed. The referee rightly overturned the decision, offering further hope to the visitors. Warsaw looked dangerous, but the away team continued to carve out the better chances. Kacper Tobiasz denied Josh Mulligan, before a 40-yard volley bounced off the bar from Boyle. Seven minutes of additional time added further torture for the visiting support, somewhat heartbreakingly as Legia clawed their way back into the match. Juergen Elitim was left unmarked in the box; smashing home to make it 4-4 on aggregate, and ensure a further thirty minutes of extra time. The visitors were visibly exhausted as extra time began, and their hopes were dashed in the 98th minute when Mileta Rajovic lashed a high shot past Smith, putting them behind again. Jan Ziolkowski picked up a second yellow to offer hope for Hibs, but they were unable to find their fourth goal of the evening. A gut-wrenching defeat for the visitors, who had produced a stunning second-half period to come roaring back into the tie. Legia Warsaw: Tobiasz Ziólkowski Jedrzejczyk (Shkurin 90′) Kapuadi Wszolek (Alfarela 79′) Kapustka (Rajović 67′) Augustyniak (Szymański 67′) Elitim Vinagre Bichakhchyan (Stojanović 79′) Nsame (Urbański 90′) Hibernian: Smith N. Cadden (Iredale 79′) O’Hora Bushiri Obita (Klidje 101′) C. Cadden (Hoilett 57′) Boyle (Megwa 90′) Mulligan Levitt (Youan 90′) McGrath (Chaiwa 57′) Bowie

August 28, 2025

No European Hangover for the Hibees as They Progress to Premier Sports Cup Quarter Final

Josh Mulligan and club record signing Thibault Klidje both got off the mark for Hibernian, as they won 2-0 to knock Livingston out of the Premier Sport Cup in the round of 16. Hibs came into this one off the back of a gruelling extra time triumph over Serbian side Partizan Belgrade on Thursday evening, whilst Livingston were hoping to gather some momentum following a 3-1 victory over Falkirk last weekend. The results sees the capital city side book a trip to Ibrox to take on Rangers in the quarter-final, which ensures to be a mouth-watering clash as the Hibees will be entitled to a larger away allocation as per cup rules. Klidje nearly got his first goal for Hibs before some fans had eve taken their seats. The Togolese forward got on to the end of a long ballad tried his luck from range with a looping volley, but it was palmed over by Jerome Prior in the Livingston net. Hibs had the lion’s share of possession in the first half and approached the game with a bit of directness, challenging the Livingston back line’s resolve with balls over the top to utilise the pace of Klidje and Martin Boyle. Their best chances leading up to the goal however came from distance, with Josh Campbell and Alasana Manneh having half volleys from the edge of the area blocked by yellow jerseys. The Edinburgh side’s goal would come just on the stroke of half time. Martin Boyle’s in-swinging corner curled onto Klidje’s head at the near post and was directed goalwards on the striker’s first start for his new club. The away side kept the pressure on as they plugged away for a second, and opportunities for that two goal cushion didn’t come much better than Junior Hoilett’s effort just after the hour mark. Just minutes if not seconds after coming off the bench, the Canadian was put clean through on goal by Klidje’s defence splitting pass, yet the experienced winger dragged a tame effort wide of the post. The second goal would eventually come for the visitors just three minutes from time, when substitute Josh Mulligan sent a rocket into the top left corner of the goal, also meaning that this was his first goal for Hibs as well, since his arrival from Dundee this summer to well and truly send Hibernian on their way to the quarter final as they will be aiming to win their first piece of silverware since their Scottish Cup heroics of 2016.

August 17, 2025

Cadden winner seals Euro Playoff for Hibs

Hibernian 2-3 Partizan Belgrade Bowie (59′) Cadden (100′ ET) Vukotic (17′) Milosevic (44′) Kostic (90+5′) Hibs advance 4-3 on aggregate Chris Cadden’s 100th-minute strike settled a nervy aggregate victory for Hibs against Partizan Belgrade to set up a play-off showdown with Legia Warsaw. Two Jordan Smith blunders had levelled the tie at halftime, before a sensational 35-yard Kieron Bowie strike put Hibs ahead. Andrej Kostic sent the game to extra time with a 95th-minute equaliser before Cadden’s winning goal. David Gray made one change from the side that won 2-0 in Serbia a week ago, as Josh Campbell replaced the injured Jamie McGrath. The home side had an early chance to extend their aggregate lead when a deflected cross from Martin Boyle fell to Chris Cadden, but he fired his shot straight at Partizan goalkeeper Milosevic. Perhaps a missed opportunity to kill off the tie. But the visitors took the lead after 17 minutes. Vukotic found space on the edge of the box and unleashed a strike that looked routine for Smith. But the Hibs keeper could only get a hand to it, tipping the ball into the net and leaving the home side stunned. Boyle’s teasing cross was tipped away, leading to a corner, from which Dylan Levitt delivered a brilliant left-footed cross to the back post, where Rocky Bushiri rose highest but could only head the ball wide, missing a great opportunity to level the score. The half went from bad to worse for Hibs when another goalkeeping blunder gifted Partizan their second goal. Mario Jurcevic charged down the left side, his low cross found its way to Milosevic, whose tame left-footed shot somehow squirmed under Smith’s body and crossed the line. In the dying moments of the half, Jurcevic was again involved on the left, sending in a cross that struck Warren O’Hora’s arm inside the box, bringing play to a halt for a VAR check as a sobering first half for the home side drew to a close. Despite the two mistakes, Gray kept faith with Smith for the second half and Hibs started to find their way into the game, despite from doggedness from Partizan’s youthful team. Step forward Kieron Bowie. A hopeful ball forward bounced kindly for the striker, without thought, he unleashed a dipping strike which arched over the helpless Marko Milosevic. The home support erupted, knowing that this goal would be remembered in the green side of Edinburgh for years to come. Within minutes, it got even better. Partizan defender Nikola Simic took down the goalscorer to receive his second yellow and his marching orders to prematurely end his night. The home side began to play with freedom after a crucial five-minute period and a positive move between Bowie and Cadden saw the latter whip a right-footed cross to Boyle, who volleyed wide. They had the ball in the net again on the 70th minute through substitute Nicky Cadden, but Boyle was narrowly offside in the build-up. Smith came up with two big saves in quick succession. Firstly, blocking a low shot, and then tipping Milosevic’s effort over the bar. A big confidence boost at a crucial time, backing up Gray’s decision to stick with him. As the game reached the 90th minute, the home side looked set to secure a place in the playoff round of the Conference League. However, Easter Road was left stunned after a neat Partizan move saw 18-year-old substitute Andrej Kostic finish at the near post. It was agony for the home faithful, with seconds of normal time remaining, the aggregate score was tied. Hibernian hit back in extra time as the game ticked over 100 minutes. Milosevic, in the Partizan goal, parried Mulligan’s strike into the path of the onrushing Chris Cadden. The defender missed a golden chance in the early stages of the game but made no mistake to thrash the ball into the open net. The outstanding Bowie almost settled the game, taking a positive touch on the edge of the box, his left-footed strike narrowly evaded the right post. Smith came up with a huge save moments later, a straight forward through ball found Jurcevic, but the Hibs goalkeeper did superbly to tip the strike around the post, with a Junior Hoilett effort rounding off a breathless opening 15 minutes. Nicky Cadden had the best chance of the second period, arriving at the back post but could not deflect his shot or header on goal. The home side’s high line almost caught them out moments later. Mario Jurcevic fired home, but the play was brought back for another offside infringement. Partizan came close again when goal scorer Kostic hit the post in the closing stages. The full-time whistle blew on a marathon evening in Leith as the fans celebrated in the stands, with a sense of relief as they managed to prolong their stay in Europe United sunk by penalties as Vienna recover to claim play-off berth The mood at Tannadice was very different by contrast as Rapid Vienna needed penalties to get past Dundee United and send Jim Goodwin’s men crashing out of the Conference League. The Arabs returned from the Austrian capital with a hard-fought 2-2 draw last week so knew the tie was far from over in Dundee as a play-off spot was at stake. Max Watters nodded in the opening goal for United and added a second from the penalty before the break to make it 2-0 and give themselves the best chance of going through. Rapid hit back through Janis Antiste, whose cross in was deflected into the United net with Ercan Cara notching an equaliser on the night and on aggregate to make sure the tie went the distance. Both sides couldn’t be separated any further as the game went to penalties, where Amar Fatah’s first penalty for United, which struck the post, was the only one not to be converted, as Rapid Vienna claimed the victory in the end.

August 14, 2025

Gray staying grounded despite first leg success

Hibernian welcome Partizan Belgrade to Easter Road as they look to keep their Europa Conference League group phase dream alive and avoid a repeat of the disappointing defeat to FC Midtjylland a fortnight ago. David Gray and his team went to Serbia in last Thursday’s first leg and took home a 2-0 victory in which Martin Boyle produced the goals in a magical night to boost the Scottish co-efficient. Belgrade will travel to Edinburgh as they look to overturn the deficit, whilst Hibs will fancy their chances of extending their lead in the tie in front of a sold-out Easter Road crowd. Should Hibernian progress the job doesn’t get any easier as they will face AEK Larnaca or Legia Warsaw, where Larnaca lead 4-1 after the first leg. Preparations from both sides have differed with Hibs throwing away a two-goal lead in Kilmarnock while their Serbian foes recorded a resounding 7-2 away win over Napredak. Hibs boss David Gray refuses to get too excited, despite the first leg and has urged the fans to fill the stands. “It’s half time in the tie, nothing’s been achieved yet we start this game at 0-0,” he told the press conference on Wednesday. “We’ll be approaching this game as though it’s goalless with it all to play for because we all know the threat and danger Partizan possess. “They have real good quality technical players who are at that level for a reason. We need to be at our very best to get a positive result. “You can never ever underestimate the power of what the fans can do to really spur you on.” Midfielder Jamie McGrath also spoke at the press conference and revealed how desperate he and his teammates are to be the first Hibs players to make it to the group stages in a European competition. He added: “The gaffer said a Hibs team have never got through to the group stages and that is something in the back of our minds as we want to be the first to do it. “We can’t afford to take our eye of the ball of we will be punished.” Recent signing Grant Hanley could make his European debut after getting his first taste as a Hibee in Sunday’s 2-2 draw with Kilmarnock while Partizan will be without Vukasin Djurdjevic who was sent off in last Thursday’s first leg. The game kicks off at 8pm and will be shown live on the BBC Scotland channel.

August 14, 2025

SPFL Weekly – Matchday 2: Five Talking Points

Hearts served up a pulsating finale at Tannadice, while Rangers faltered with an unchanged side at home to Dundee. Elsewhere, concerns mounted for the goalless Aberdeen and St Mirren, Livingston claimed promotion bragging rights, and Kilmarnock fought back to frustrate Hibs. While BBC Sportscene marked its 50th birthday with a special edition on Saturday — and a welcome return for presenter Dougie Donnelly — they brought the weekend’s action to the small screen. But while they show it, here’s our take on the big talking points from Matchday 2 of the 2025/26 SPFL season. Set-Piece Heaven: Findlay and Grant Lead the Way Stuart Findlay. Take a bow. Fresh from scoring the second against Aberdeen last week, he delivered again. This time, in dramatic fashion, heading a last-minute winner at Tannadice to keep Hearts top. Not to mention his part in the other goals, he won the penalty for Lawrence Shankland and nodded in the equaliser too. His heroics also spared Zander Clark’s blushes after mistakes in both Dundee United goals, prompting the ‘keeper to sprint the length of the pitch at full-time to celebrate with his saviour. Cheers, Stu. The Jambos began with Alan Forrest at right wing-back but struggled to make inroads down that side — a sharp contrast to the hosts’ stand-in wing-back, Ivan Dolček, who struck twice. Most of Hearts’ threat came down the left, where Harry Milne thrived in the final third, linking superbly with the attack. James Penrice, who? It will concern Dundee United that all three goals they conceded came from set pieces, with former staff member Ross Grant — now Hearts’ set-piece coach — returning to haunt them. Squad depth at wing-back is also an issue, mirroring Hearts’ problems in that area, though Dolček impressed in his stint on the right. Derek McInnes again showed his tactical acumen, reshaping his side at half-time to address their problems on the right. Moving Michael Steinwinder to right-back and Alexandros Kyziridis to right midfield helped nullify the threat of Dolček. However, a move for a new right-back and a goalkeeper after Clark’s recent woes could also be on the cards. United is still in the early stages of rebuilding after a busy summer. Still, signs of promise are already there with Dolček and marquee signing Amar Fateh returning from injury. Their immediate focus is on Europe, with a credible away result against Rapid Vienna setting up a big night at Tannadice. Victory would move them closer to the group stage and the potential £5m windfall it brings. With momentum building over the past two years, Jim Goodwin is now discussing a new contract. Rejoice! As for Hearts, Tony Bloom’s bold prediction of a title challenge within the next decade might be closer than many think… Dee-Light at Ibrox as Dundee Rattle Rangers For the first time in 36 years, Rangers have opened a league season without a win in either of their first two games, and Russell Martin is still waiting for his first Premiership victory as head coach. Russell Martin admitted last week his side didn’t deserve a point — and, arguably, they didn’t here either, despite James Tavernier’s late penalty salvaging one. Dundee might have been cruelly denied had Cyriel Dessers’ stoppage-time strike stood, but the offside flag spared them. The Glasgow side fielded an unchanged eleven from their resounding 3-0 win midweek against Viktoria Plzeň. With hindsight, Martin should have made changes, as his team lacked intensity. Rangers are a work in progress, with new owners, a new boss, new signings, and a few out. Yet, in Glasgow, patience is in short supply, and the fans are already restless. This was evident with the booing throughout the match, particularly of second-half substitutions Nico Raskin and Kieran Dowell. Despite Rangers’ lethargy, Dundee deserves full credit for exploiting it. Energetic and brave, they were unrecognisable from their limp League Cup displays. Steven Pressley geed up his team for this tie, particularly Luke Graham’s standout defensive performance. And special mention goes to Ryan Astley, whose terrific second-half header gave Dundee the lead and had them on the brink of a marquee win for Pressley, if not for Captain Tav’s intervention from the penalty spot. Nasser Djiga’s afternoon also ended on a sour note, the defender seeing red for bringing down Fin Robertson as the last man just minutes after Astley’s opener. No appealing that one. Dons & Buddies Draw Blanks Aberdeen and St Mirren have failed to score in their opening two games of the season, though each has a different take on their final-third troubles. The Saints remain confident the goals will come and are only likely to enter the market if the price is right (think free transfers and loans). Context matters, having already travelled to Celtic Park and faced a rejuvenated Motherwell. They looked threatening in spells but perhaps missing pace in attack, a Toyosi Olusanya-type figure since his move to the USA in April. Aberdeen, meanwhile, have also endured a tough start, opening away to ‘title-chasing’ Hearts and last season’s champions Celtic. But they have looked worryingly toothless, with their only real threat to Kasper Schmeichel a long-range strike from Adil Aouchiche and a miscommunication between Shin Yamada and the veteran keeper. Their summer signing, Yusini Yengi, has endured a difficult start. He squandered a gilt-edged chance at Tynecastle and was underwhelming against the Hoops’ defence. At times on Sunday, he looked an isolated figure before being hooked on 55 minutes. Both captain Nicky Devlin and manager Jimmy Thelin have backed the Australian to come good, insisting he needs time and more attacking support from those around him. Yengi’s woes haven’t stopped the Pittodrie side from entering the market. They have been linked with Swedish winger Kenan Bilalovic for a six-figure fee and young AC Milan striker Marko Lazetic on a free transfer, albeit with a hefty sell-on clause attached. With Europa League qualifiers looming and Friday’s European signing deadline fast approaching, Aberdeen’s need for firepower is urgent. Lions Roar Again

August 12, 2025

SPFL Weekly – Matchday 1: Five Talking Points

Russell Martin blows his top after a lacklustre showing, Luke McCowan spares blunt Celtic with late heroics, and Derek McInnes’ Jambos breezed into pole position for title challenge. Kieron Bowie was the Starman at Den’s Park, and it was a level start on opening day for promoted sides. We’re back! Here’s our round-up of the big talking points from Matchday 1 in the 2025/26 SPFL season. Martin Fires Warning Shot The post-match talk to the press is rarely more explosive than the game. Yet the new man in the dugout, Russell Martin, let rip in his Sky Sports interview after their opening SPFL game at Fir Park, criticising the mentality of his squad. He accused some of his Teddy Bears of ‘reverting to type’ and needing to ‘drop their egos’. An impressive second-half performance from Motherwell saw Emmanuel Longelo’s powerful strike cancel out James Tavernier’s first-half header in the 1-1 draw. The Lanarkshire side could have won, too, with Jack Butland denying Tom Sparrow, who scored their winner at Ibrox in March, in the game’s dying moments. Martin admitted that his ex-Norwich teammate’s side, Jens Berthel Askou, who joined Motherwell in the summer as Head Coach, was ‘braver’ and more ‘aggressive’ than his side and was lucky to get a point. Their supporters booed off the Glasgow side at full-time, echoing déjà vu from last season. The Brighton man, who played for Rangers on loan in 2018, delivered similar criticism in context to Barry Ferguson’s comments last season. Although Martin said it was ‘not an attack on anyone personally’ ahead of tonight’s Champions League qualifier against Viktoria Plzen at Ibrox, he will need to be careful not to alienate his squad. They overcame Panathinaikos over two legs in the previous round of European qualifiers. However, the less-than-convincing performances and players playing out of position have baffled supporters. He said some players must ‘drop their ego’, but perhaps he should be the one to compromise on his tactics and do so willingly if he wants to succeed in Glasgow. He told Sky Sports: “We need to work out who really wants to be all in and who doesn’t.” Martin has been busy in the transfer window, with the recent arrival of Finnish international Oliver Antman, who arrives from Go Ahead Eagles in a £4m deal, pushing the total to nine signings. The gaffer will hope Antman doesn’t shrink under pressure but grows into a giant in attack. Loyal servant and club captain James Tavernier, who has been at the club for ten years, has been an ever-present in this so-called egotistical environment. Still, question marks remain about his ability to instil a positive culture. Maybe Martin, Tavernier, fresh faces, and player exits can finally push the club in a new direction. Rodgers Needs Firepower After McCowan Bailout Luke McCowan saved Celtic’s blushes with a deflected strike in the last ten minutes of the game against a stubborn St Mirren side at Celtic Park. It was hard to say what was less surprising: Stephen Robinson’s men, unbeaten in last season’s top-six split and fresh off a third consecutive top-half finish, proving they are no pushovers, or McCowan coming off the bench and positively changing the game for the Hoops. The Bhoys started with a party. A rousing rendition of You’ll Never Walk Alone rang out, Kris Boyd pleading for Scott Brown to keep talking on Sky Sports so he doesn’t have to hear it. Lisbon Lion John Clark, who passed away in the summer, had a tifo unveiled in his memory. And the club welcomed back 90s legend Paul McStay before he unfurled the league champions’ flag at Celtic Park. Unfortunately, that’s where the shindig faded. The home side struck the woodwork four times and saw a Callum McGregor second-half strike correctly ruled out for handball. It wasn’t until McCowan’s 12-minute cameo that the game came to life. The 27-year-old brought energy and the decisive flourish that Benjamin Nygren and the front three of Yang, Adam Idah, and Daezen Maeda lacked. He had a similar role last year, coming on as a substitute 17 times for Celtic in the league, scoring six goals and assisting seven times for his boyhood club. The narrow 1–0 win means the reigning champions have now won their opening league fixture in 17 of the last 18 seasons. It has been a successful period for the club, but Brendan Rodgers will only continue at Celtic beyond his contract, which expires at the end of the season, if the club continues to develop on and off the park. Rodgers wants attacking reinforcements, but Yang is less than convincing. James Forrest is ageing, and the injured Jota is not expected to return until the new year. Adam Idah continues to blow cold, and Jonjoe Kenny and new signing Shin Yamada are both untested in the league. On BBC’s Sportscene, ex-Celtic defender Charlie Mulgrew says the club needs two wingers and a striker, which is a fair assessment based on the manager’s recent comments. Hearts Weather the Wind and Bloom into Title Contenders The Jambos were back in league action after cruising in their League Cup campaign the past few weeks. Even Storm Floris caused chaos across Edinburgh, with Fringe shows cancelled, train services halted, and even the Military Tattoo called off. Still, it couldn’t disrupt Derek McInnes’ men with a 2-0 win over Aberdeen. They had no sympathy for the 650 Aberdeen fans attempting the journey south, or for Dons’ captain Graeme Shinnie, who put the ball into the back of his net in the early stages of the game from a Harry Milne cross. Jambos’ summer signing Stuart Findlay finished the scoring with a brave header past an onrushing Dimitar Mitov. Lawrence Shankland thought he had doubled their advantage in the first half with a wonder strike, which was disallowed for offside in the build-up. Managing his first league game for Hearts against a former club, Derek McInnes told Sky Sports afterwards that “we gave everything.” They will

August 5, 2025

Our Writers Predict the 2025/26 Scottish Premiership

The William Hill Premiership is looming, with the opening weekend starting with Killie hosting the newly promoted side of Livingston on Saturday and concluding with the blockbuster clash on Monday when Aberdeen visit Hearts. Fresh optimism, big questions and plenty of intrigue await. Will Celtic continue their domestic dominance? Can Hearts, Hibs, or Aberdeen close the Old Firm gap? And who’s facing a scrap at the bottom? The transfer window is still open, and predictions may hinge on late window shenanigans. However, our team of journalists has examined all 12 clubs and offered their early predictions for this season. Aberdeen Callum Hart – 4th I’m tipping them to finish 4th. Cameron Caldwell – 7th Guaranteed European football until January will be a double-edged sword for Jimmy Thelin’s squad. Balancing these demands with the busy domestic calendar will be a struggle. Jack Cranmer – 5th Jimmy Thelin pulled off a shock by guiding Aberdeen to Scottish Cup glory and European group stage qualification. However, that European run could become a burden. The squad is decent, but its depth is questionable. Thursday-Sunday football has hurt clubs like Hearts, and Aberdeen may suffer similarly. Recruitment has been shrewd, but whether it’s enough to maintain a top-four challenge remains to be seen. Mack Kelly – 5th They have had a lot of activity in the transfer window this season, and Thelin is now properly putting his stamp on the squad. I think European football this season will act as a derailer for the Dons and hold them back in the table. That said, I can see the Reds going on a run in the Conference League. Michael Shuel – 5th The Dons have been busy in the transfer market, but losing Jamie McGrath on a free is a blow. Hopefully, their recruits can prove effective. The extension of Alfie Dorrington’s loan is a good move, as he will continue to develop into a top defender. They hope to continue last season’s success, which saw them pick up silverware. Ryan Niven – 5th Inconsistent last season, and with the addition of European football, I feel the Pittodrie club will struggle. Scott Bradley – 5th Despite the historic Scottish Cup win against Celtic last season, we can’t forget the Dons had a poor second half of the season, only managing to win five of their last 26 league games. The Dandies played in Europe under former boss Barry Robson, and they struggled to cope with that Thursday-to-Sunday schedule; the same could happen this season. Celtic Callum Hart – 1st Celtic still seems to be the better team between them and the Rangers; however, I think the gap will be closer this year than last. Cameron Caldwell – 1st While there’s still work to do in the transfer market, Celtic’s established core should be consistent enough to secure their fifth consecutive Scottish Premiership title. Jack Cranmer – 2nd Celtic remain favourites, but a storm may be brewing. Brendan Rodgers’ recent comments hint at dissatisfaction with the club’s backing during the summer window. Nicolas Kühn’s departure is a blow, and while Benjamin Nygren appears a capable replacement, it’s hard to argue he’s an upgrade on an in-form Kühn. If he stays fit, Kieran Tierney will be an improvement on Greg Taylor, but that’s a big ‘if’ across a 50+ game season. Up front, serious concerns remain: Jota won’t be fully fit until late in the campaign, Adam Idah is still unconvincing, Kyogo Furuhashi still hasn’t been truly replaced, and the new options lack the quality Celtic have had in recent years. Rodgers has a track record of third-season stagnation, and if he’s not backed, he could walk. If that happens, chaos could open the door to a Rangers resurgence. Mack Kelly – 1st It will be much tighter at the top end of the table this season, but I think the squad’s quality and experience will deliver the Celtics’ fifth consecutive title by no more than six points. Michael Shuel – 1st With the Rangers experiencing a tactical revolution (or mess, as some could call it) and the mastermind Russell Martin joining, the Celtics should be scared. Not really. It will take time for Rangers to gel, and the Hoops have too much quality in all areas of their squad. Could they do with more wingers now? Sure. But that’ll come. Are there question marks around Adam Idah? Look, he will still get 15-20 goals this season. If that’s what you call a flop (even at a staggering £9m), then so be it. Ryan Niven – 1st With the Rangers being rebuilt, Celtic will bring home another title. However, their lack of transfer business so far makes me believe it’ll be a closer title race than last season. Scott Bradley – 2nd Despite winning a double last season, Brendan Rodgers’ men have dropped in form and standards over the last few months. There doesn’t seem to be a real buzz and excitement surrounding the Scottish champions at this moment in time, and the lack of transfer business is a concern, especially amongst the Celtic faithful. I believe this will be Rodgers’ last season, and if he loses the first Old Firm game at Ibrox, the alarm bells will start ringing. Dundee Callum Hart – 12th After Dundee’s poor start to the campaign, I think it’ll continue into the league season. Cameron Caldwell – 12th Steven Pressley hasn’t been a manager since 2019. This lack of recent experience could prove problematic for a Dundee team that only narrowly avoided relegation last year. Jack Cranmer – 12th I don’t want to be too harsh on Steven Pressley; he’s done his homework at Brentford, but alarm bells are already ringing. Losses to Airdrieonians and Alloa in the League Cup, plus a narrow win over Lowland League Bonnyrigg Rose, don’t inspire confidence. Their recruitment, mainly from English lower leagues and loans from Brentford youth, looks risky. Pressley’s man-management has also been questioned, and losing Josh Mulligan and Lyall Cameron won’t help. If results don’t pick up soon, the

August 2, 2025

Hibs 1–2 Midtjylland: Extra-Time Agony Ends Europa Hopes at Easter Road

Hibernian faced Danish Superliga side FC Midtjylland in a crunch Europa League qualifying second leg in Edinburgh this evening. The Hibees went into the match level after a credible 1–1 draw in Herning last week and looked to navigate their way into the third qualifying round. Both sides looking to book advance and earn a tie with Norwegian side Fredrikstad. The Danes had put six past Sønderjyske on Monday, ahead of the tie and were looking to continue that form and silence a sold-out Easter Road. Head coach David Gray named an unchanged side from last week’s first leg. They remained without Lewis Miller, who looks set to head south to Blackburn. Scotland international Grant Hanley was in attendance, rumoured to be the Australian’s replacement in the Hibs backline. First Half The visitors kicked things off shooting toward the Hibernian Block Seven Ultras in the Famous Five Stand. The home crowd were in full voice from the outset, creating a hectic and formidable atmosphere for the four-time Danish champions. Their efforts would pay off, with the hosts creating the early chances and twice forcing Jonas Lössl into saves. Hibs had the ball in the net after just 15 minutes, however the assistant’s flag denied them a memorable early breakthrough. Both sides traded blows for the remainder of the opening half, with Hibs carving out a few promising opportunities. Midtjylland were limited to chances only through some nervy Hibs defending and efforts from range. Stopper Jordan Smith pulled off solid stops and Warren O’Hora making a goal-denying block. It was level at the interval, with everything still to play for as the hosts looked to join fellow Scottish sides Rangers and Dundee United in the next round of European qualification. Second Half The offside rule that had denied Hibs in the first half came to their rescue early in the second. Franculino Djú broke through on the right-hand side of the area and slotted past Smith, but this time it was VAR, not the assistant’s flag, that ruled the opener out and kept the tie level. Smith continued to be the busier of the two keepers in the second half, making multiple stops, while Lössl was reduced to a near spectator. Thomas Thomasberg’s side dominated the second period, but a combination of Smith’s heroics and wasteful finishing kept them from taking the lead. Djú, in particular, will be kicking himself, the Bissau-Guinean striker rounded Smith midway through the half but hesitated, allowing Jack Iredale to nip in and clear before he could slot home. Hibs thought they had won it right at the death when captain Martin Boyle found himself racing through on goal in stoppage time. The Hibs legend squared it to substitute Nicky Cadden for a simple tap-in, but once again the offside ruling came into play to cancel out the would-be opener. And so it remained 0–0. With no away goals rule in European competition anymore, the tie headed into extra time. Extra Time With legs tiring and supporters’ anxiety levels sky-high, the game carried on into extra time here in Leith, both sides desperately searching for a winner. The visitors looked to have found it through Chilean midfielder Darío Osorio, whose long-range strike finally beat the outstanding Smith to send the Danish side on course to face Norwegian outfit Fredrikstad. But Hibs struck back right on the cusp of the extra-time interval, with Rocky Bushiri cementing his place as a Hibs hero by finding the crucial equaliser when his side needed it most. The big central defender wheeled away toward the Main Stand, sparking wild celebrations from all four sides of a packed Easter Road. Both sides would have chances at the death, but nerves and fatigue would finally get to Hibs, a cross from the wide right was turned in spectacularly by Júnior Brumado. Inside the penalty area the unmarked Brazilian got his back down and a great connection on the ball to send his team through to the next round. What’s Next? Midtjylland advance to the next round to face Fredrikstad, while Gray’s men must now regroup for a shot at the UEFA Conference League. They will travel to Belgrade to take on FK Partizan in what promises to be an intimidating affair. The Serbians advanced from their own second-round qualifier with a 6–0 aggregate win over Ukrainian side FC Oleksandriya. Att: 19,556

July 31, 2025

Hibs Eye Scotland Star in Shock Transfer Rumour

Former Norwich and Birmingham defender Grant Hanley could be on his way to Hibernian. The 33-year-old free agent was spotted at Easter Road tonight, watching Hibs’ Europa Qualifier against FC Midtjylland. He was accompanied by his former Scotland teammate and Hibs technical director, David Marshall. Hanley has 62 appearances for Scotland, including playing in the back-to-back Euros in 2021 and 2024. Scotland manager Steve Clarke often utilises him in a back three, a setup similar to David Gray’s Hibs team. The Leith side has already strengthened their centre-back options, securing Rocky Bushiri and Jack Iredale on long-term contracts towards the end of last season. Adding Hanley’s experience could be vital for Hibs, especially after their impressive third-place finish last season. Hibs have had a busy summer transfer window so far, bringing in Josh Mulligan from Dundee, Jamie McGrath from Aberdeen, Austrian goalkeeper Raphael Sallinger, and record signing Thibault Klidje. The latter Klidje arrives from Swiss side Luzern in a deal worth over 1 million, a statement of intent from Hibernian.

July 31, 2025

Solid starts in Europe for Dundee United and Hibernian

Dundee United and Hibernian kick started their European campaigns as United defeated Una Strassen 1-0 in their Europa Conference second qualifier and the Hibees got an important 1-1 draw away from home against FC Midtylland in their Europa League second qualifier. FC Midtylland 1-1 Hibernian David Gray’s men had a dream start in Denmark all thanks Jamie McGrath opening the scoring as his free-kick found it’s way into the net from the wide left of the pitch. The Danish side struggled to get to grips at the start, but grew into the game and pulled back an equaliser at the 72nd minute as Aral Simsir slotted away a lovely free-kick. Gray spoke after the game about how proud he was of his side’s performance: “We spoke about deserving the opportunity for how well we played last season and what we achieved last season. “But you need to come to these places and believe you can get a result and I think the way we started the game, every player definitely did that. “We were on the front foot straight away. The first 20 minutes I thought we were excellent. “We had to defend, I thought that was excellent. So really proud of the effort from every single player. “But I’ve just been very quick to remind everyone that it’s only part one, that’s half time in the tie.” Dundee United 1-0 Una Strassen Jim Goodwin’s men played in front of 11,000 people at Tannadice as seven of the nine signings made by the Terrors started the game. New summer signing Zac Sapsford got his United career off to a flying start as his strike went into the bottom left hand corner at the 47th minute. Goodwin’s team were fairly in control and he believes that his side should be in a more comfortable position going into the second leg. He said after the game: “We’re pleased with the clean sheet and we scored a really good goal with a bit of quality and it was a wonderful strike. “I think there are certain elements we need to do better in. We turned over possession far too cheaply which led to counters but defensively we were very good. “There were certainly moments in the game where we need to improve. I thought when we did move the ball quickly and found pockets, we looked a threat but we’ve left at least a couple of goals out there. “Vicko Sevelj had a great chance but credit to the keeper who made a good save. “The disappointment is more the fact we didn’t do ourselves justice in the second half. Our possession on the ball, we didn’t move it quickly enough.“ We were too sloppy and we’ll try to improve those things. It’s still very early days for this group of players but there’s a lot to work on going into next week. “I don’t mean to sound doom and gloom, I’m just disappointed we didn’t make it more comfortable.”

July 25, 2025

Hibs