Rangers vs Hibernian Match Recap - Dec 15, 2025

Rangers Edge Hibernian in Tactical Battle, Securing Vital Three Points

Rangers' narrow 1-0 victory over Hibernian at Ibrox Stadium underscores their resilience amid a turbulent stretch of form. The win marks a crucial moment for Rangers, who have struggled to find consistency in recent weeks, now sitting fourth in the Premiership with 29 points from 16 matches. This result not only solidifies their position but also sends a message to the league that they can grind out results when it matters most.

Fernandez emerged as the hero of the day, scoring the decisive goal in the 35th minute. His performance is a continuation of his upward trajectory, having been a key figure in Rangers' recent matches. This victory comes on the heels of a disappointing loss to Ferencvarosi TC, where Rangers were outshot and outplayed. The contrast in performance today was stark; Rangers dominated with 14 total shots compared to Hibernian's mere 4, showcasing their attacking intent and ability to control the game.

Hibernian's recent form has been a mixed bag, with their last five matches yielding three wins but also two losses, including a setback against Celtic. Despite their spirited display against Falkirk prior to this match, they struggled to replicate that form against Rangers. The tactical setup employed by coach David Gray, a 3-4-1-2 formation, aimed to flood the midfield and counter effectively, but it fell short against Rangers' organized defense. Hibernian managed only 1 shot on goal, highlighting their inability to penetrate a resolute backline.

Rangers' midfield, led by Connor Barron, was instrumental in dictating the tempo of the match. Barron's ability to link play and maintain possession allowed Rangers to control the game, reflected in their 53% ball possession and an impressive 87% pass accuracy. This control was crucial in stifling Hibernian's attempts to build momentum. The midfield battle was pivotal, with Barron outshining his counterpart Jamie McGrath, who struggled to make an impact.

The defensive unit for Rangers, anchored by Butland, showcased resilience, recording a clean sheet despite facing pressure from Hibernian's forwards. The back four effectively neutralized threats from Bowie and Youan, who had been instrumental in Hibernian's recent successes. Rangers' defensive solidity is a welcome sign after conceding goals in previous matches, particularly against Ferencvarosi TC.

Hibernian's inability to convert possession into meaningful chances was evident throughout the match. They recorded 224 total passes with only 80% accuracy, which is below their usual standards. This inefficiency reflects a broader trend in their recent performances, where they have struggled to capitalize on opportunities created. The lack of creativity in the final third was a significant factor in their defeat today.

The match statistics reveal that while Rangers were effective in attack, Hibernian's approach was hampered by their own shortcomings. Despite leading in fouls committed (8 to 7), Hibernian failed to leverage set-piece opportunities that could have turned the tide. Their reliance on counter-attacks was stifled by Rangers' disciplined defensive structure, which limited their chances of exploiting any gaps.

Looking ahead, Rangers will face Heart Of Midlothian next, where they will aim to build on this momentum. The victory against Hibernian could serve as a turning point for them as they seek to establish consistency in their performances. Meanwhile, Hibernian must regroup quickly before their clash with Dundee Utd, where they will need to find a way to convert possession into goals if they hope to remain competitive in the league.

This match encapsulated the ongoing narratives for both teams: Rangers are finding ways to win despite inconsistencies, while Hibernian must address their offensive struggles if they wish to climb higher in the standings. The tactical battle at Ibrox highlighted the importance of execution and adaptability in football, setting the stage for an intriguing second half of the season.