The anticipation is palpable as Hearts prepare to host Rangers at Tynecastle Park in the opening round of the 2024-25 Scottish Premiership campaign.
Match Preview
Last season, Hearts enjoyed a strong run, and they’re eager to build on that success.
However, their off-season results have been less than stellar, with defeats to Leyton Orient, Tottenham Hotspur, and Fleetwood Town.
Rangers, on the other hand, faced disappointment last season, narrowly missing out on league and cup titles to rivals Celtic.
Their pre-season form has also been shaky, including losses to Ajax Amsterdam, Manchester United, and Birmingham City.
A 4-4 draw against Bundesliga side Union Berlin was their most recent outing.
Hearts have struggled recently, winning just one of their last nine matches. However, they remain unbeaten in their last 11 competitive games at Tynecastle Park, securing seven wins during that period.
Head-to-Head
- Total meetings: 346
- Hearts wins: 71
- Rangers wins: 211
- Draws: 64
Rangers are undefeated in their last 15 games against Hearts. Hearts haven’t kept a clean sheet in their last 10 matches against Rangers.
Injury and Suspension
Both teams will be without key players due to injuries and suspensions. Hearts will miss Calem Nieuwenhof and Beni Baningime while Rangers will be without Dujon Sterling.
Prediction
Considering recent form and historical head-to-head stats, I predict a hard-fought draw: Hearts 2-2 Rangers.
Betting Tips
Result: Draw – Both teams are evenly matched, and a draw seems likely.
Goals – Over/Under 2.5: Over 2.5 goals – Six of the last eight matches between these teams have produced more than 2.5 goals.
Both Teams to Score: YES – In eight of the visitors’ last 10 matchups, both sides found the back of the net.