As Hearts travel to Hampden on Sunday to face rivals Hibs in the Scottish League Cup semi final, Jambos boss Wouter Vrancken will be looking to emulate the heroics of Robbie Neilson’s side four-and-a-half years ago.
The last time an Edinburgh Derby took place at the National Stadium was on April 16, 2022, when Hearts booked their place in the Scottish Cup final after defeating their rivals 2-1. In a match that had near enough everything, two first half thunderbolts from Hearts striker Ellis Simms and defender Stephen Kingsley gave them a commanding early lead.
Hibs defender Chris Cadden got one back to potentially kickstart a comeback, however a second half red card for Easter Road midfielder Joe Newell kiboshed any chance of that. A month later, Hearts faced Rangers in the final but were defeated 2-0 after extra time.
As Hearts and Hibs now prepare to descend on Hampden for the first time since then, we take a trip down memory lane to look at the Jambos’ starting XI and subs from that memorable day. From the English Premier League to the Austrian second division, here’s where they are now:
1. GK - Craig Gordon
On the day, the Gorgie legend made a crucially important reaction save from a Ryan Porteous header in the second half to keep Hearts in the lead. Now, at the age of 43, he hung up his gloves in July after representing the club for 13 years over two spells. | SNS Group
2. RWB - Nathaniel Atkinson
Having signed for the Jambos four months prior to the semi-final, the Australian international would spend two more years at Tynecastle before leaving for Melbourne City. | SNS Group
3. CB - Toby Sibbick
Bailed out by his attacking teammates at Hampden after his error led to the Hibs goal. He left for EFL League One side Wigan Athletic in 2024 and now plays for Burton Albion in the same division. | SNS Group
4. CB - Craig Halkett
Defender went off injured in the second half and had to leave Hampden on crutches. Still at Hearts, his luck hasn't gotten any better, as he suffered an Achilles injury in May and isn't expected to return until January 2027. | SNS Group