Five games Hibs fans should watch this weekend as two clashes vital to European hopes

David Gray’s Hibs are not kitting up this weekend but that doesn’t mean there’s a lack of action to keep abreast of elsewhere.

An exit from the Scottish Cup in January means the head coach has had time this week to fine tune his team ahead of a return to Premiership business on March 14th versus Livingston. In the meantime, fans may be keen to sample some football elsewhere, whether that be on the TV or out and about at a match.

Hibs sit fifth in the league so there is some intriguing matches, which may impact European hopes, on top of other clashes elsewhere. Here are five possible options for fans at Easter Road to sample this weekend.

Rangers vs Celtic (March 8th, 1pm)

It’s the Scottish Cup quarter-final that will gather the most attention but for Hibs there are reasons to give this one a watch. Fifth wouldn’t be a nailed on European place this season through the top flight so they need Rangers or Celtic glory in the Scottish Cup, so that their continental prize is passed down, should Hibs finish a top five club. Hibs fans won’t jump to support either side of Glasgow’s big two but this will give an indication over who perhaps will carry significance in their European quest. It’s live via Premier Sports.

Edinburgh City vs Stranraer (March 7th, 3pm)

This is more of a local clash but with plenty of Leith interest. The Citizens are fighting for their place in the SPFL but if they want to aid keeping League Two status at Meadowbank, they’ll need to get through Chris Aitken’s impressive side. They are pushing for promotion and have Hibs players Dean Cleland and Joseph McGrath on loan. So not only would Hibs fans be supporting a local club, there would be a chance to see some of their promising stars too.

Scotland vs Luxembourg (March 7th, 5pm)

If international football is the flavour you seek then action is on at Hampden when Scotland host Luxembourg in a FIFA Women’s World Cup qualifier. The Tartan Army might expect some goals after the away leg of this tie finished 5-0 to Saturday’s hosts, and another win would set them up nicely for ties with Belgium and Israel later this year. BBC Alba will broadcast the fixture.

Dundee vs Motherwell (March 7th, 3pm)

Perhaps only the hardiest of Hibs fans would return to Dens Park this week after last weekend’s 3-3 draw with Dundee, but Motherwell’s visit to Tayside could be significant. A win for the fourth-placed Steelmen moves them 10 points clear of Hibs and leaves the latter fighting uphill for a nailed on European spot, but defeat leaves the door ajar. Highlights will be available post match over the weekend.

Bologna vs Hellas Verona (March 8th, 2pm)

Kieron Bowie has been a regular for Hellas Verona since leaving Hibs for Serie A and this weekend could provide a chance for fans in Edinburgh to watch him on fresh ground. He comes up against Scotland international Lewis Ferguson and Bologna this weekend, streamed by DAZN in the UK.