Falkirk vs Hibernian on 24 January
As the Scottish Premier League battle intensifies, Falkirk will host Hibernian at the Falkirk Stadium on January 24th in what promises to be a gripping encounter. With both teams locked in fierce competition for critical points, this clash holds significant implications not just for their positions on the table but for their respective aspirations in the league. Falkirk, looking to regain momentum after a tough run, will face Hibernian, who are steadily climbing the ranks with a refreshed tactical outlook. The stakes are high, and the result could have far-reaching consequences for both clubs.
Falkirk: Tactical Approach and Current Form
Falkirk's current form has been inconsistent, with the team managing only two wins in their last five matches. Their tactical approach under manager John McGlynn has leaned heavily on a counter-attacking style, often employing a 4-4-2 formation. In their most recent matches, they've struggled with maintaining possession but have been dangerous on the break. Falkirk’s average possession rate stands at just 45%, which illustrates their preference for a direct style, relying on quick transitions and long passes rather than sustained build-up play.
Key metrics such as their xG (expected goals) of 1.2 per match suggest that while they create decent chances, their finishing has been a point of concern. With 12 goals scored in their last 5 games, they have struggled to convert their opportunities, a challenge that will be amplified against a disciplined side like Hibernian. On the defensive side, Falkirk's ability to press high has been one of their strengths, as evidenced by their 16 pressing actions per game. However, they often leave space behind for opposition attackers to exploit, and this could be a crucial vulnerability in this match.
One player to watch is striker Aidan Nesbitt, whose pace and direct running have been pivotal in Falkirk’s counter-attacks. He has 4 goals in his last 6 matches and will need to be at his best to break down Hibernian's well-organized defense. However, the absence of key midfielder Callum Morrison, who is sidelined with a hamstring injury, could severely limit their creativity in midfield, a blow to Falkirk’s ability to dictate the tempo of the game.
Hibernian: Tactical Approach and Current Form
Hibernian’s form in recent weeks has been impressive, with 4 wins in their last 5 matches. Manager Lee Johnson has instilled a more possession-oriented philosophy, with the team typically lining up in a 4-3-3 formation. Hibernian has averaged 57% possession in their last 5 matches, reflecting their emphasis on controlling the game through the middle of the park. Their style is characterized by patient build-up play, often starting from the back with goalkeeper David Marshall playing a key role in distributing the ball to the defense and midfielders. This approach has seen Hibernian dominate possession in key areas, particularly in the final third.
Hibernian's xG stands at 1.7 per match, underscoring their efficiency in creating high-quality chances. The team has scored 15 goals in their last 5 matches, thanks to the excellent form of their forwards, particularly Kevin Nisbet. Nisbet has 5 goals in his last 5 appearances and is currently Hibernian's most dangerous player. His ability to operate between the lines of defense and find space in the box makes him a constant threat. Alongside him, Martin Boyle's speed and dribbling ability on the right wing offer an outlet for Hibernian's counter-attacks, making the team versatile in their attacking play.
However, Hibernian will be without the services of midfielder Joe Newell, who is serving a suspension following a red card in the previous match. His absence could lead to a tactical shift, with Hibernian perhaps looking to dominate more directly through the wings rather than the middle. Despite this, Hibernian's defense has been solid, allowing only 1 goal per match in their last 5 games, which should make it difficult for Falkirk to break them down.
Head-to-Head: History and Psychology
The recent head-to-head record between Falkirk and Hibernian paints a picture of a fairly balanced rivalry. In their last 5 encounters, Hibernian have won 3, while Falkirk has claimed 2 victories. However, the most recent clash in October 2025 saw Hibernian dominate with a 3-1 win at home. Falkirk, despite their resilience, were unable to cope with the tactical sophistication of their opponents, particularly in midfield where Hibernian controlled the pace of the game.
One consistent trend in these encounters has been the physicality of the matches. Falkirk, while disciplined in their pressing game, often struggle against teams with superior technical ability and ball retention, which Hibernian has in abundance. This psychological advantage is something Hibernian will look to exploit once again in this match.
Key Battles and Critical Zones
In this match, the key tactical duel will likely take place in the middle of the pitch, where Falkirk’s high pressing game will meet Hibernian’s more structured, possession-based approach. Falkirk will look to disrupt Hibernian’s build-up play with their energetic pressing, but this could leave them vulnerable to Hibernian’s quick transitions, especially down the flanks.
Another crucial battle will be between Falkirk’s full-backs and Hibernian’s wingers, particularly Kevin Nisbet and Martin Boyle. Falkirk’s full-backs are tasked with providing width in attack but often struggle defensively against quick, direct players. The outcome of this battle will heavily influence the match’s flow, as Falkirk’s defensive shape could easily be stretched by the pace and trickery of Hibernian’s wide players.
The third decisive zone will be the battle between Hibernian’s center-backs and Falkirk’s striker Aidan Nesbitt. If Falkirk can isolate Nesbitt in one-on-one situations, he has the pace to exploit any lapses in concentration from Hibernian’s defense, particularly on the counter. However, if Hibernian’s center-backs maintain their discipline and avoid leaving space behind, they could nullify Falkirk’s primary attacking threat.
Match Scenario and Prediction
Given the tactical setups of both teams, the most likely scenario is one where Hibernian will control possession for long stretches, probing for an opening, while Falkirk will look to remain compact and break quickly on the counter. Falkirk’s pressing will be crucial early on, as they need to disrupt Hibernian’s build-up and prevent them from finding rhythm in midfield. However, with Hibernian's superior technical quality and attacking prowess, especially through Nisbet and Boyle, Falkirk will likely struggle to contain them for the entire 90 minutes.
Ultimately, Hibernian’s composure and balance in attack should see them prevail, with a 2-1 victory the most plausible outcome. Falkirk will certainly create chances, but their inability to convert opportunities and their vulnerability to Hibernian’s quick transitions will likely cost them. Key match metrics such as xG, possession in the final third, and pressing actions will be critical in determining the flow of the match. Hibernian’s high pressing and solid defensive record should ensure they leave Falkirk with three vital points.
Final Thoughts
As the teams prepare for this high-stakes clash, the match will answer one key question: Can Falkirk disrupt Hibernian’s possession game and capitalize on their defensive vulnerabilities, or will Hibernian’s tactical maturity and attacking firepower prove too much? With both teams hungry for a win, the stage is set for an exciting encounter that promises to be a feast of tactical intrigue and high-paced football.
