What's happened
Hearts have the edge in the Scottish Cup semi-final against Hibernian, with form in the league and Hampden dominance shaping expectations. The match at Hampden on Sunday sees Hearts aiming to take another derby win as both teams chase early silverware.
What's behind the headline?
Analysis
- Hearts are approaching the semi-final in better league form than Hibs, having collected more points this season.
- Hibs’ new manager is implementing a fresh style, but defensive fragility and blunt attack have persisted.
- Hearts’ offensive output has been higher this season, with potential advantage in attack quality.
- The Hampden backdrop adds pressure; historically Hearts have the upper hand in recent derbies, and Hibs have yet to win at Hampden against Hearts.
- The outcome could hinge on midfield control and the ability to convert chances against a vulnerable defensive unit.
How we got here
Hearts and Hibernian have a long derby history. Hearts are in stronger Premiership form and hold recent bragging rights in the league, while Hibs are under new head coach Marink Reedijk and seek a first Hampden win over Hearts.
Our analysis
BBC Sport: Hearts v Hibs preview; The Scotsman: derby context and team news; BBC Business: attendance notes and historical context.
Go deeper
- Will Hearts seal a derby win at Hampden again?
- Can Hibs break their Hampden hoodoo under Reedijk?
- Which side holds the tactical edge heading into kickoff?
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