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:
5. CB - Stephen Kingsley
The only Hearts player on the day that could feature on Sunday, his 30-yard thunderbolt from a free kick routine was Messi-esque, according to commentator James McFadden. | SNS Group
6. LWB - Alex Cochrane
Fan favourite fullback left for Birmingham City in 2024 after a successful two years at Hearts. He starts every week at St Andrew's at a side with promotion to the Premier League in their sights. | SNS Group
7. CM - Peter Haring
Midfielder took a whack from Hibs' Newell for his second half sending off. He spent six years at Tynecastle before leaving for Austrian second tier side Floridsdorf in 2024. | SNS Group
8. CM - Andy Halliday
Another injury casualty on the day following a recurring achilles issue - the Scotsman received painkilling injections so that he could feature in the final. He left Hearts for Motherwell in 2024 before hanging up his boots in May. He's now a renowned pundit. | SNS Group