Hibernian vs Hearts Prediction & Betting Tips (27 December)

Hibernian approach this Edinburgh derby with a mixture of frustration and determination after a difficult run of results in recent weeks. Their narrow 1–0 defeat to Rangers highlighted recurring issues in the final third, something manager David Gray openly acknowledged as a concern for his sideSTV News. The club has also been adjusting to internal changes, including developments within the wider Hibernian setup such as Grant Scott’s departure from the women’s team to join Celtic Women as head coachSky Sports. While these changes do not directly affect the men’s squad, they reflect a club in transition, trying to steady itself both on and off the pitch. With Hibs sitting mid‑table and looking to regain momentum, the derby arrives at a moment when they need a performance that restores belief.

Hearts, meanwhile, enter the fixture with a very different energy, having surged to the top of the Premiership table and maintained their position with a strong 2–1 victory over Rangers that extended their lead over CelticSTV News+1. Stuart Findlay and others within the squad have spoken about embracing the spotlight that comes with being league leaders, especially as several of their upcoming matches have been selected for live television due to their impressive formSTV News. The Jambos have shown resilience and consistency, and even with some injury concerns such as Craig Halkett’s recent absence, the squad has demonstrated depth and confidence. Their recent performances suggest a team that is not only winning but doing so with a clear identity and belief.

Recent matches for both sides underline the contrasting trajectories heading into this derby. Hibernian’s narrow losses, including the recent defeat to Rangers, have exposed issues in creativity and composure in decisive momentsHibernian FC. Hearts, on the other hand, have collected statement wins, including their latest triumph over Rangers, which extended a remarkable run and reinforced their status as genuine title contendersEdinburgh News. The psychological dynamic is also intriguing: David Gray insists that Hearts’ league position does not add pressure to Hibs, arguing that the derby carries its own intensity regardless of standingsSTV News. Yet supporters of both clubs know that form often shapes expectation, and Hearts undeniably arrive with the stronger platform.

Taking all factors into account—the form guide, the tactical patterns, the recent news surrounding both clubs, and the momentum carried by Hearts—it is difficult to ignore the gap in confidence and consistency between the sides. Hibernian will rely heavily on the derby atmosphere at Easter Road to lift their performance, but Hearts’ structure, recent results, and attacking sharpness give them a clear edge. With that in mind, the most realistic outcome appears to be a narrow away victory, and the prediction for this match is a 1 : 2 correct score.