Hibernian vs Aberdeen Match Recap - Dec 30, 2025

Hibernian Dominates Aberdeen with a 2-0 Victory, Solidifying Their Upper-Mid Table Position

Hibernian's 2-0 victory over Aberdeen at Easter Road not only showcased their attacking prowess but also highlighted the stark contrast in recent form between the two sides. Thibault Klidje and Junior Hoilett found the net, continuing their respective runs of form and pushing Hibernian further up the Premiership standings.

Hibernian's recent performances have been a rollercoaster, but this match marked a significant step forward. With this win, they now sit in fifth place with 28 points, having secured seven wins, seven draws, and five losses in 19 matches. The victory against Aberdeen follows a thrilling 3-2 win over Heart Of Midlothian, where Hibernian displayed resilience and attacking flair. Klidje's goal today adds to his growing reputation as a key player for Hibs, having already scored in their previous encounter against Aberdeen earlier this season.

Aberdeen's struggles continue to mount, now sitting sixth with 25 points after 18 matches. Their recent form has been disappointing, with only one win in their last five outings. The loss to Hibernian compounds their woes following a lackluster performance against Celtic, where they conceded three goals. The defensive frailties that plagued them in that match were evident again today, as they failed to contain Hibernian's attacking threats.

Hibernian's midfield dominance was evident throughout the match. They controlled possession with 61%, allowing them to dictate the tempo and create more opportunities. This is a continuation of their trend from recent matches, where they averaged around 54% possession against teams like Dundee Utd and Falkirk. The midfield trio of Jamie McGrath, Daniel Barlaser, and Josh Mulligan effectively linked play, creating space for the forwards to exploit.

Aberdeen's approach has shifted recently, but their inability to adapt effectively was on display today. Despite having a solid midfield presence with players like Adil Aouchiche and Stuart Armstrong, they struggled to connect with their forwards. Their total shots were limited to just four, a stark contrast to Hibernian's seven. This lack of offensive output reflects a broader trend in their recent matches, where they have often been outshot by opponents.

Defensively, Hibernian showed resilience, limiting Aberdeen to only two shots on target. This defensive solidity is a welcome change for Hibs, who had previously struggled against top-tier teams like Rangers and Celtic. The back three of Warren O'Hora, Grant Hanley, and Jack Iredale effectively neutralized Aberdeen's attacking threats, showcasing improved coordination and communication.

Aberdeen's tactical setup aimed to bolster their defense with a five-man backline, yet it failed to yield the desired results. Their inability to maintain structural integrity allowed Hibernian to exploit gaps and create scoring opportunities. The contrast in passing accuracy further illustrates this point; Hibernian boasted an impressive 86% pass accuracy, compared to Aberdeen's 80%. This efficiency in passing allowed Hibs to maintain pressure and control the game.

The impact of Klidje cannot be overstated. His goal today marks a continuation of his impressive form, having already scored against Aberdeen in their last meeting. His ability to find space and finish clinically has made him a vital asset for Hibernian as they push for a higher league position. Meanwhile, Hoilett's late goal serves as a reminder of his experience and ability to perform under pressure, adding depth to Hibernian's attacking options.

Aberdeen must regroup quickly as they face another challenging fixture against Falkirk next week. Their recent performances have raised questions about their tactical approach and ability to adapt under pressure. With only one win in their last five matches, they need to find solutions quickly if they hope to remain competitive in the league.

Hibernian's next challenge comes against Kilmarnock, where they will look to build on this momentum. If they can maintain their current form and continue to capitalize on their attacking strengths while solidifying their defense, they could very well climb further up the table.

This match encapsulated the ongoing narratives for both teams: Hibernian is finding its rhythm and confidence, while Aberdeen is grappling with inconsistency and defensive vulnerabilities. As the season progresses, both teams will need to address these issues if they hope to achieve their respective goals in the Premiership.