Live updated coverage of the Scottish Premiership's pivotal top-of-the-table encounter is underway, as Hearts host Celtic in a match that could significantly shape the destination of the league title. The atmosphere is electric at Tynecastle Park for this Sunday afternoon fixture, with kick-off scheduled for 3pm GMT.
A Historic Opportunity for Hearts
Hearts stand on the brink of a monumental achievement in Scottish football. A victory today would not only strengthen their position at the summit of the Premiership but also edge them closer to a first top-flight championship since the distant year of 1960. Under the stewardship of manager Derek McInnes, the team has emerged as impressive and resilient front-runners during a season marked by unexpected turbulence for the traditional Glasgow giants, Celtic and Rangers.
McInnes has navigated recent injury concerns that posed significant tactical challenges, yet his squad remains poised to make history. Should they triumph, this Hearts side would become the first in the club's long history to secure three league victories over Celtic within a single campaign—a remarkable feat underscoring their title credentials.
Celtic's Resurgence Under Caretaker Guidance
Standing in their way, however, is a Celtic team revitalised and determined. The defending champions have been buoyed by the return of Martin O'Neill in a caretaker managerial capacity. His influence has been profound, with strong performances under his temporary guidance ensuring Celtic remain firmly in the title conversation, both before and after the brief tenure of Wilfried Nancy.
The visitors arrive at Tynecastle knowing that a defeat could be catastrophic for their championship aspirations. Falling nine points behind the leaders would represent a substantial gap with precious little of the season remaining. Furthermore, with arch-rivals Rangers also contending fiercely, Celtic can ill afford to lose further ground in this intensely competitive three-way tussle for the Scottish crown.
The Stakes Could Not Be Higher
This fixture represents the very essence of a title-deciding clash. The Scottish Premiership race has reached a boiling point, and the outcome of this direct confrontation between first and second place will send powerful reverberations throughout the league. All eyes are fixed on Edinburgh for what promises to be a compelling and potentially season-defining ninety minutes of football.
Follow every pivotal moment, tactical shift, and goalmouth incident from Tynecastle Park with our comprehensive live blog below, providing minute-by-minute updates and expert analysis as the drama unfolds.
Hearts vs Celtic Live
The stage is set for a truly mouth-watering encounter. The top two teams in the Scottish Premiership collide in a crunch clash that could very well determine where the famous trophy ends up in May. A victory for Hearts would see them widen the gap over the defending champions to a formidable nine points.
Kick off at a packed and passionate Tynecastle Park is at 3pm GMT.
Reporting by Harry Latham-Coyle
25 January 2026 11:36
