Claudio Braga told Sky Sports News that the Hearts squad has been nurturing a strong belief in their ability to win the Scottish Premiership for most of this dramatic season. The Jamboes have been the benchmark for consistency, holding the top spot for the majority of the campaign and now sit three points clear of the defending champions Celtic, with Rangers trailing by a further point.
Braga, who is among the nominees for the PFA Scotland Premiership Player of the Year, feels that the club’s first league crown since 1960 is now within reach. "We just wanted to take it game by game, and that was crucial," the Portuguese forward explained.
"Now we understand that if we win every remaining match, the title is ours. That’s the expectation of the city, the club and the supporters." He added that composure will be key as Hearts approach a pivotal clash against Rangers on Monday night, hoping to secure three points to solidify their lead. "We started believing a long time ago, but we couldn’t say it out loud.
With only four games left, the responsibility is on us," Braga said. The 26‑year‑old joined Hearts from Norwegian second‑division side Aalesunds in the summer and has already become the team’s leading scorer this season, netting 17 goals.
His arrival was initially viewed as a step up, and he admits he was unsure whether he would even start. "I wondered if I could win any silverware, maybe a cup, or at least fight for a top‑three finish.
That was my expectation when I signed for Hearts – to earn my place and help the team," he reflected. Braga’s personal journey mirrors the club’s unexpected rise. He confessed that he never anticipated the level of success the team would achieve this year.
"I wasn’t even sure if I could start. The level here is higher than what I was used to, so it was a big step. I didn’t expect what has happened this season – it’s a huge surprise and I’m thrilled about it," he said. Hearts’ next league fixture is a home game against Rangers on May 4, which will be broadcast live on Sky Sports.
The match is expected to be a decisive moment in the title race, with both sides aware that a slip could swing the championship in the opposite direction. Beyond the immediate battle for the title, the Scottish Premiership is also gearing up for its end‑of‑season awards.
Fans are invited to vote for the goal of the season, with a shortlist that includes Aberdeen’s Marko Lazetic, Celtic’s Reo Hatate, Callum McGregor, Hyun‑Jun Yang and Sebastian Tounekti, Dundee’s Ethan Hamilton, Dundee United’s Zac Sapsford, Falkirk’s Kyrell Wilson, Hearts’ Alex Kyziridis, Kilmarnock’s Ben Brannan, and Rangers’ duo Jayden Meghoma and Youssef Chermiti. The voting platform showcases twelve spectacular strikes, allowing supporters to choose their favourite. In addition to the goal poll, the league is promoting the Super 6 competition, offering a chance to win a £250,000 prize pool. Participants can enter for free, adding another layer of excitement for fans as the season draws to a close.
Overall, Braga’s confidence reflects a broader sentiment at Hearts: a blend of cautious optimism and determined ambition. After a season that has seen them lead the table for most of its duration, the club now faces the final stretch with a clear target – to secure the league title that has eluded them for more than six decades.
The upcoming fixtures, especially the showdown with Rangers, will test the squad’s resolve, but the belief that has been building over the months appears stronger than ever. If they maintain their focus, composure, and winning mentality, Hearts could very well write a historic chapter in Scottish football.