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Hearts and Aberdeen Announce Starting XIs for Scottish Cup Semi-Final
The stage is set at Hampden Park as Hearts and Aberdeen have named their starting lineups for Saturday’s Scottish Cup semi-final clash. Both teams are aiming to secure a place in the final, where they’ll face either Celtic or St Johnstone.
It’s a crucial match not just for silverware, but for both managers—Neil Critchley and Jimmy Thelin—who are in their debut seasons in Scottish football. A victory would be a major milestone and boost for either side.
Journey to the Semi-Final
Hearts earned their place in the final four with wins over Brechin City, St Mirren, and Dundee. Their path wasn’t easy, but the Edinburgh side showed grit and quality to reach Hampden.
Aberdeen had their share of challenges too, defeating Elgin City and Dunfermline before seeing off Queen’s Park in the quarter-finals.
Hearts Starting XI
Neil Critchley has chosen Craig Gordon to start in goal, providing experience between the posts. The defensive line includes James Penrice, Jamie McCart, Michael Steinwender, and Adam Forrester.
In midfield, Beni Beningame and Sander Kartum will offer stability, while Jorge Grant and Lawrence Shankland are set to provide attacking drive. Up front, Elton Kabangu partners with James Wilson.
Aberdeen Starting XI
Dimitar Mitov returns from injury to start in goal for the Dons. The backline features Graeme Shinnie, Mats Knoester, Alfie Dorrington, and Alexander Jensen.
Leighton Clarkson and Ante Palaversa take charge in midfield, while Topi Keskinen, Papa Gueye, and Shayden Morris support striker Kevin Nisbet in attack.
A High-Stakes Battle
While both sides have experienced mixed results in the Premiership, lifting the Scottish Cup would transform their seasons. With passionate support expected at Hampden, it promises to be a memorable afternoon.
