Hearts 3-1 Celtic: Post-match review, Stats, Key moments

Dive into Ladbrokes' post-match review of Hearts 3-1 Celtic in the Premiership on Sunday, 26 October 2025, with stats, key moments and our take on the match.

Well, what a result at Tynecastle! Hearts absolutely stunned Celtic with a 3-1 victory, continuing their impressive run of form. The Jambos have now won five matches on the trot, with this latest triumph being the most significant yet. Celtic, on the other hand, will be licking their wounds after back-to-back losses, and this defeat certainly wasn't in the script. Lawrence Shankland was the star of the show again, but it was the early own goal that set the tone for Hearts' dominance.

The game kicked off with a bang when Celtic's defence put the ball into their own net just eight minutes in. That early lead seemed to galvanise Hearts, who then added two more goals in quick succession in the second half. Celtic did manage to pull one back, but it was too little too late. This result not only extends Hearts' winning streak but also sends a clear message to the rest of the league: they're here to compete at the top.

Looking at the stats, you'd think Celtic should have walked away with at least a draw, given their 65% possession and nine corners compared to Hearts' five. But football isn't played on paper, is it? Hearts were clinical when it mattered, converting a penalty and capitalising on an early own goal. The Jambos also showed more discipline in their play, with a higher successful dribble percentage at 57% compared to Celtic's 42%.

Despite Celtic's dominance in possession, Hearts' efficiency in front of goal and their ability to win the crucial moments of the game made all the difference. The four yellow cards for Hearts compared to Celtic's one might suggest a more aggressive approach, but it didn't hinder their performance. It's clear that Hearts made the most of their opportunities, which is reflected in the final scoreline.

The match was defined by a few pivotal moments that swung the game in Hearts' favour. It all started with an own goal by Celtic just eight minutes into the game, setting the tone for what was to come. Hearts then doubled their lead early in the second half with a well-taken goal, showing their intent to secure the win.

The icing on the cake was a penalty converted by Hearts in the 55th minute, which effectively sealed the victory. Celtic did manage to score a consolation goal in the 12th minute, but it was Hearts' ability to capitalise on key moments that ultimately decided the match. These moments of brilliance and clinical finishing were what separated the two teams on the day.

Hearts lined up in a 4-4-2 formation, with Alexander Schwolow in goal and a solid backline of McEntee, Halkett, Findlay, and Kingsley. The midfield was anchored by Devlin and Baningime, with Kyziridis and Milne providing width. Up top, Shankland and Braga led the line, and it was Shankland who made the difference with his goal.

The lineup showed no surprises, but the impact of the substitutions was notable. Hearts made five changes throughout the game, which helped maintain their energy and momentum. Shankland's performance was the standout, but the team's overall cohesion and tactical discipline were key to their success.

Celtic opted for a 4-3-3 formation, with Schmeichel between the posts and a defence of Donovan, Murray, Scales, and Tierney. The midfield trio of Engels, McGregor, and Hatate were tasked with controlling the game, while Nygren, Kenny, and Tounekti led the attack. Despite their efforts, it was a tough day at the office for the Bhoys.

The lineup was as expected, but the substitutions didn't have the desired impact. Celtic made four changes, but they couldn't turn the tide. The early own goal seemed to unsettle the team, and despite their possession and attacking intent, they couldn't find a way back into the game.

Lawrence Shankland is our Ladbrokes' Man of the Match, and rightly so. His goal in the 55th minute from the penalty spot was crucial in securing the victory for Hearts. Although he didn't register any assists or create big chances, his key pass and overall influence on the game were significant. Shankland's performance epitomised Hearts' determination and clinical edge.

Recent Premiership matches:

• Win: 3-1 vs Celtic (H)
• Win: 3-0 vs Kilmarnock (A)
• Win: 1-0 vs Hibernian (H)
• Win: 3-0 vs Falkirk (H)
• Win: 2-0 vs Rangers (A)

Recent Premiership matches:

• Loss: 1-3 vs Hearts (A)
• Loss: 0-2 vs Dundee (A)
• Win: 3-2 vs Motherwell (H)

Sitting pretty at the top of the league with 25 points, Hearts will be looking to maintain their momentum when they face St. Mirren, who are languishing in 9th place with just 9 points. The Jambos will approach this game with confidence, knowing that another win could further solidify their position at the summit. This result against Celtic will only boost their belief as they prepare for the match on October 29, 2025 at 19:45.

Dropping to second place with 17 points, Celtic will be eager to bounce back when they take on Falkirk, who sit in 6th with 12 points. The Bhoys will need to regroup and find their form quickly, as another slip-up could see them fall further behind. The match against Falkirk on October 29, 2025 at 19:45 will be crucial in their quest to reclaim the top spot.

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Odds and market details are accurate as of the time of publication.