"We've had faith in our title chances for a while, but kept it to ourselves," Claudio Braga revealed to Sky Sports News, as Hearts players exude confidence in their Premiership title bid. Having led the pack for most of the season, the Jambos are now three points ahead of reigning champions Celtic, with Rangers trailing by a further point. Braga, a nominee for PFA Scotland Premiership player of the year, believes their first title since 1960 is within grasp.
"Our approach has been to take it one game at a time, which has been crucial," the Portuguese forward explained. With only four games left, the pressure is on, and Braga acknowledges the weight of expectation from the city, the club, and the fans. "We must remain calm, especially with a critical match against Rangers on Monday night.
If we secure three points, it will be a significant step towards the title," he emphasized. Braga, who joined Hearts from Aalesunds last summer, has been the club's top scorer this season with 17 goals.
Initially, his goal was to win some silverware or finish in the top three, but the current situation has surpassed his expectations. "I wasn't sure if I'd even start, given the difference in level from my previous team.
It's been a big surprise, but I'm thrilled with how things have turned out," Braga admitted. Hearts' next match is against Rangers on May 4, live on Sky Sports, as the 2025/26 season nears its dramatic conclusion.