The Scottish Premiership title race is heading for a dramatic conclusion. Hearts have led since October, but after Celtic's 3-1 Old Firm derby win over Rangers, the champions are now just one point behind with two games remaining. The question on everyone's lips: have Celtic become the favourites to retain their crown?
Celtic's resurgence has been remarkable. Since losing to Dundee United in March, they have won six consecutive matches in all competitions, including five league victories that have gradually eroded Hearts' advantage. At Celtic Park, they have been near-impenetrable, winning all four home games since a February defeat to Hibernian, scoring ten goals and conceding just three.
Former Celtic midfielder Neil Lennon highlighted the shift in momentum. "They've got the intensity back," he said, pointing to the psychological boost of ending Rangers' title hopes. Lennon's view is backed by statistics: Celtic are on a five-game league winning streak, while Hearts, though unbeaten in six, have had to come from behind in five of those matches, dropping points at Livingston and Motherwell.
Injuries are also threatening Hearts' challenge. Centre-back Craig Halkett and midfielder Marc Leonard sustained serious knocks at Fir Park, while forward Claudio Braga has looked exhausted in recent outings. Former Scotland winger Pat Nevin believes Hearts boss Derek McInnes "must be getting worried about the amount of injuries." The absence of key players could prove decisive in the run-in.
The spectre of 1986 looms large. That year, two Albert Kidd goals for Dundee denied Hearts the title and handed it to Celtic. Nevin expects that traumatic memory to weigh on the Hearts squad as the pressure intensifies. "It's the kind of history that seeps into the psyche," he noted.
Celtic's revival is largely attributed to interim manager Martin O'Neill, who has restored unity after a period of disconnect between fans and the board. "Getting rid of the toxicity at Celtic Park has been immense," Nevin said. O'Neill has improved the existing squad without needing January signings, turning players like Callum McGregor into title-winning leaders.
Despite the momentum, O'Neill remains cautious. "I've never been confident," he admitted. "Momentum can get shifted at any given moment." He described Celtic's remaining fixtures as "two mountains to climb," with a tricky trip to Motherwell first. "We have to win because I would expect Hearts to win," he added.
Midweek matches set the stage for a potential final-day decider. Celtic travel to Fir Park on Wednesday, while Hearts host Falkirk. Both are expected to win, setting up a monumental head-to-head at Celtic Park next Saturday. A victory for either side would likely seal the title, while a draw would keep Hearts ahead on goal difference.
Hearts have been unbeaten against Celtic this season, winning two of three meetings, but Celtic's form and home advantage tilt the balance. Former Hearts and Rangers midfielder Andy Halliday noted O'Neill's motivational impact: "He's made all the players Celtic already had better." The veteran manager's possible final season adds emotional fuel.
As the title race reaches its climax, all eyes are on Glasgow. Celtic's momentum, combined with Hearts' injury woes and historical baggage, suggests the champions are now favourites. But Hearts' resilience cannot be underestimated. The final day promises to be a classic.
Based on reporting from BBC Sport.
