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:
9. RW - Liam Boyce
Registered a loosely-termed assist for Kingsley's wonder-strike. The Northern Irishman headed back to his homeland in January 2025 to sign for Derry City. | SNS Group
10. LW - Barrie McKay
The other provider on the day left Hearts at the end of the 2024/25 campaign upon the expiration of his contract. In February, he joined Livingston on a short-term deal, but suffered the same fate again in the summer and is now a free agent. | SNS Group
11. ST - Ellis Simms
Despite only playing 21 games for Hearts during his Everton loan spell, his long-range strike at Hampden will be remembered in Gorgie for a long time. He left Goodison Park for Coventry in 2023 and helped the Sky Blues win promotion to the Premier League last season. | SNS Group
12. SUB - Aaron McEneff
Perhaps not the most memorable name from the iconic victory, the Northern Irishman would leave the club months later to sign for A-League side Perth Glory. He is now a regular feature in the midfield for Glentoran back in his homeland. | SNS Group