Claudio Braga told Sky Sports News that the Hearts squad has been brimming with confidence about winning the Scottish Premiership for most of this thrilling season. The Jambos have spent the majority of the campaign at the top of the table, sitting three points clear of defending champions Celtic, with Rangers a further point behind. As one of the nominees for the PFA Scotland Premiership Player of the Year, Braga knows 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 really important," the Portuguese forward explained. "Now we understand that if we win every remaining fixture, the title will be ours. That is what the city, the club and the supporters are all expecting." He added that the team must remain composed ahead of a crucial encounter on Monday night against Rangers, hoping to secure three points to keep the margin intact.
"We started to believe a long time ago, but we couldn’t say it out loud. Now, with only four games left, it’s on us to finish the job," Braga said. The 26‑year‑old joined Hearts from Norway’s second‑division side Aalesunds last summer and has already become the club’s leading scorer this season, netting 17 goals. He reflected on his personal journey, admitting that when he first arrived in Edinburgh he was unsure whether he would even start matches.
"The level here is higher than what I was used to, so it was a big step for me," he recalled. "My initial expectation was simply to win some silverware, maybe a cup, and to fight for a top‑three finish. I never imagined we would be in a position to claim the league title. It’s been a huge surprise, and I’m thrilled for everyone involved." Hearts’ next league fixture is a home showdown with Rangers on May 4, which will be broadcast live on Sky Sports.
The match is seen as a potential title‑decider, with both sides aware that a slip could hand the advantage to the other. Braga emphasized the need for calmness and focus, noting that the pressure from fans and the city can be intense but also motivating.
Beyond the immediate battle, the broader context of Scottish football adds weight to Hearts’ achievement. The club has not lifted the Premiership trophy since the 1959‑60 season, making this campaign a historic opportunity for a generation of players and supporters who have endured years of Celtic and Rangers dominance. The Jambos’ sustained lead throughout the season, despite injuries and the inevitable ups and downs of a long league run, demonstrates the depth of the squad and the tactical acumen of manager Robbie Neilson.
Braga’s personal form has been a key factor in Hearts’ success. His 17 goals place him among the league’s top scorers, and his ability to create chances for teammates has transformed Hearts’ attacking play. He often drops deep to link midfield and attack, allowing wingers to exploit space on the flanks.
This versatility has made him a nightmare for opposition defenders and a fan favourite at Tynecastle. Off the pitch, the atmosphere in Edinburgh has been electric. Match‑day crowds have grown, with supporters chanting Braga’s name and displaying banners that read “Believe”.
Local businesses have embraced the title race, offering special promotions and wearing the club’s colours. The city’s media outlets have run daily updates, highlighting the statistical odds of Hearts clinching the crown and analysing each fixture’s significance.
The upcoming match against Rangers is not only a test of skill but also of mental resilience. Rangers, who sit just a point behind, will be eager to close the gap and force a final‑day showdown.
Both teams have shown the capacity to score late goals, so discipline and concentration in the closing minutes will be crucial. Braga believes his side is ready: "We have trained for these moments, we know what to do when the game is tight, and we trust each other. If we keep our composure, the title will be ours." In addition to the league battle, the Scottish Premiership is also highlighting individual brilliance through a goal‑of‑the‑season competition.
Players such as Aberdeen’s Marko Lazetic, Celtic’s Reo Hatate, Callum McGregor, Hyun‑Jun Yang, Sebastian Tounekti, Dundee’s Ethan Hamilton, Zac Sapsford of Dundee United, Falkirk’s Kyrell Wilson, Hearts’ own Alex Kyziridis, Ben Brannan of Kilmarnock, and Rangers’ duo Jayden Meghoma and Yousseff Chermiti are all in the running. Fans are invited to vote for their favourite, adding an extra layer of excitement to an already dramatic finish.
As the season draws to a close, the narrative surrounding Hearts is one of belief turning into tangible ambition. Braga’s words capture the evolution from quiet confidence to open proclamation: "We started to believe a long time ago, but now we can say it loud and clear – the title is within our grasp." Whether Hearts can maintain their lead and lift the Premiership trophy for the first time in over six decades remains to be seen, but the signs are overwhelmingly positive.
With a potent attack, a solid defensive structure, and a collective mindset focused on one goal, the Jambos are poised to make history. The final weeks will test every player’s resolve, but as Braga and his teammates have shown, belief, preparation, and determination can turn a long‑held dream into a reality.