Hibs beat Hearts 2-1 at Hampden to reach League Cup final

Hibernian defeated Hearts 2-1 at Hampden in the League Cup semi-final on 1 November 2026 to secure a place in the final.

The victory ended a run of late heartbreaks for Hibs fans who had expected another last-minute twist after a season marked by late defeats and poor form; the club entered the match bottom of the Premiership and without a league win in six. Hibs had scored four goals in their previous six games (one a penalty) and recorded only one victory in nine matches in all competitions — that sole win coming against Ross County of the third tier. Last season’s derbies turned on goals in the 86th, 88th and 90th minutes and supporters feared a repeat as the Hampden clock wound down.

Hearts took an early lead when Claudio Braga headed home after four minutes following Jordi Altena’s delivery from the right. Hibs threatened immediately thereafter but missed chances from Felix Passlack and Owen Elding, and Braga’s early goal briefly reinforced the fixture’s reputation for late drama. Braga had already scored once and later in the match stood close to adding a second before failing to convert a gilt-edged opportunity.

The remainder of the first half saw Hibs take control as Hearts suffered a series of injuries that disrupted their rhythm. Tomas Magnusson was withdrawn after a heavy clash of heads and Calvin Miller left the field with his knee braced; Hearts manager Wouter Vrancken intervened on the touchline when Magnusson appeared unsteady. Hibs capitalised on the openings, with Joe Newell asserting himself in midfield and the team’s pressing proving effective.

Martin Boyle and Jamie McGrath both scored before half-time, handing Hibs a 2-1 lead — the first time they had netted twice against Premiership opposition since August. Despite Braga missing a chance late in the first period, Hibs went in deservedly ahead after a phase in which their bigger players produced improved performances. The press and organisation that had been lacking in recent weeks were more apparent during that spell.

Hearts dominated possession in the second half and produced several opportunities as Hibs at times became careless in possession. Laurent Mendy lashed one effort wide, Braga had a shot saved, and Sabri Guendouz’s strike was tipped over by Hibs goalkeeper Raphael Sallinger. Marko Ivezic also squandered a close-range chance that might have eased Hearts’ comeback hopes, and Braga later missed a golden opportunity near the end. Supporters celebrated as Sunshine on Leith was sung around Hampden; after the rendition Reedijk said, "I love these kind of things".

Hibs’ win sends them through to the League Cup final, where they will face Rangers next month.