Claudio Braga told Sky Sports News that the Hearts squad has been carrying a strong belief in their ability to win the Scottish Premiership for most of this dramatic season. The Jambos have been at the top of the table for the majority of the campaign and sit three points clear of the defending champions Celtic, with Rangers just a point further behind. As one of the contenders for the PFA Scotland Premiership Player of the Year award, Braga knows that the club’s first league crown since 1960 is now within striking distance. "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 match, the title will be ours. That’s what the city, the club and the supporters are all expecting." He added that the team must stay calm ahead of a crucial encounter on Monday night against Rangers, hoping to secure three points to keep the momentum going.
"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," Braga said. The 26‑year‑old joined Hearts from Norwegian second‑division side Aalesund in the summer and has already become the club’s leading scorer this season, having found the net 17 times.
He reflected on his personal journey, noting how his expectations had changed since arriving in Edinburgh. "When I first came, I was thinking maybe we could win a cup or finish in the top three.
That was the realistic goal for me," he recalled. "I wasn’t even sure if I would start, because the level here is a big step up from what I was used to." Braga admitted that the success the team is enjoying now is a pleasant surprise. "I never imagined we’d be in this position.
It’s a huge surprise, and I’m incredibly happy about it," he said. Hearts’ next league match is a home fixture against Rangers on May 4, which will be broadcast live on Sky Sports. The game is seen as a potential title‑decider, and Braga believes that a win would put Hearts in an even stronger position to claim the championship.
Beyond the immediate match, the Scottish Premiership is winding down with several storylines. Fans can follow the live league table, stream matches without a contract, and watch free highlights. The league is also running a vote for the goal of the season, featuring twelve spectacular strikes from players across the division, including Aberdeen’s Marko Lazetić, 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.
Supporters are encouraged to view all the nominated goals and cast their votes for the favorite. In addition to the on‑field drama, the league has introduced a Super 6 competition offering a chance to win a £250,000 prize, with free entry for fans who wish to take part.
Overall, Braga’s confidence reflects the collective belief that Hearts can break a 66‑year title drought. The team’s steady performance, combined with the striker’s personal growth and the unwavering support of the fans, creates an atmosphere of optimism.
As the season approaches its climax, every match becomes a test of composure and resolve. If Hearts can maintain their focus, stay injury‑free, and continue to secure points against their rivals, the historic triumph they have long chased may finally become a reality.
The narrative of a club that once seemed distant from the summit is now one of near‑certainty. Braga’s words capture both the humility of a player who once questioned his place in the starting XI and the ambition of a side that now sees the title as an attainable goal. With only a handful of games remaining, the pressure will mount, but the belief that began quietly months ago has grown into a loud, collective chant echoing through the city of Edinburgh.
The upcoming showdown with Rangers will be a pivotal moment, and if Hearts can deliver a win, they will be on the brink of ending a six‑decade wait for league glory.