Hearts take responsibility for Hibs defeat as Claudio Braga speaks out

Hearts forward Claudio Braga stated his team will not use injuries as an excuse following their 2-1 loss to Hibernian in the Premier Sports Cup semi-final at Hampden Park. Braga opened the scoring after three minutes, but goals from Martin Boyle and Jamie McGrath put Hibs ahead before half-time. Despite dominating second-half possession and chances, Hearts were unable to equalize and missed out on the cup final.

The defeat worsened Hearts' injury crisis, leaving 10 first-team regulars sidelined ahead of Thursday's UEFA Conference League match against FC Thun. Tomas Magnusson was hospitalized with a concussion and Calvin Miller departed on crutches with a leg brace. Braga acknowledged the mounting squad fatigue and depleted midfield options, but urged his teammates to take responsibility and rebound quickly in Switzerland.