Claudio Braga recently opened up to Sky Sports News about the confidence that has been building inside the Hearts squad throughout this extraordinary season. The Portuguese forward, who is also in contention for the PFA Scotland Premiership Player of the Year award, explained that the team’s belief in a possible title win began many weeks ago, even if they were initially hesitant to voice it publicly. Hearts have been the dominant force for most of the campaign, sitting three points clear of defending champions Celtic, with Rangers trailing by another point. That narrow margin means the title race is still very much alive, and Braga feels the trophy – Hearts’ first league crown since 1960 – is now within realistic reach.
"We just wanted to take it one match at a time and that was crucial for us," Braga said. "Now we understand that if we win every remaining game, the championship will be ours. That is exactly what the city, the club and the supporters are hoping for." He stressed the importance of staying calm ahead of the pivotal clash with Rangers on Monday night, hoping to secure three points that would keep Hearts at the summit.
"We started to believe a long time ago, but we couldn’t say it out loud. Now, with only four games left, the responsibility is on us," he added.
The 26‑year‑old striker joined Hearts from Norway’s second‑division side Aalesunds in the summer and has already become the club’s leading scorer this season, netting 17 goals. His arrival was initially seen as a gamble; Braga admits he wasn’t sure whether he would even start, given the step up in quality from the Norwegian league to the Scottish Premiership. "I was wondering if I could win any silverware, maybe fight for a top‑three finish.
That was my expectation when I arrived," he recalled. "I wasn’t even certain I would get a place in the starting eleven.
The level was higher than what I was used to, so it was a big challenge for me." The unexpected success of this season has taken Braga by surprise. "I never imagined the things that have happened this year – it’s a huge surprise, and I’m thrilled about it," he said, expressing gratitude for the collective effort that has propelled Hearts into title contention. Looking ahead, Hearts will host Rangers at home on May 4, a match that will be broadcast live on Sky Sports. The outcome could essentially decide the championship, as a win would extend Hearts’ lead and put them in a commanding position to clinch the league.
Beyond the immediate drama, 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 standout strikes from players such as Aberdeen’s Marko Lazetic, Celtic’s Reo Hatate and Callum McGregor, Hyun‑Jun Yang, Sebastian Tounekti, Dundee’s Ethan Hamilton, Dundee United’s Zac Sapsford, Falkirk’s Kyrell Wilson, Hearts’ own Alex Kyziridis, Kilmarnock’s Ben Brannan, and Rangers’ Jayden Meghoma and Youssef Chermiti. The voting link provides a chance for supporters to celebrate the most memorable moments of the campaign.
In addition to the footballing action, the league is promoting its Super 6 competition, offering a £250,000 prize pool for participants. The promotion encourages fans to engage with the league’s broader entertainment offerings, emphasizing the vibrant community surrounding Scottish football. Overall, Braga’s remarks encapsulate a season of unexpected triumphs, personal growth, and collective ambition. From a modest start to becoming the league’s top scorer, his journey mirrors Hearts’ own resurgence.
The team’s disciplined approach—taking each fixture one at a time—has cultivated a belief that was once quiet but is now loud enough to echo through the streets of Edinburgh. As the final weeks unfold, all eyes will be on the Jambo’s performance against Rangers, a match that could cement a historic title win and end a 66‑year wait for league glory.
The narrative of perseverance, adaptation, and rising confidence continues to unfold, promising an unforgettable climax to the Scottish Premiership season.