Celtic are still competing on all three domestic fronts. They are leading the Premiership title race by nine points, with the Rangers in second. They are also set to face Michael Beale’s side in the final of the Scottish League Cup at Hampden Park this weekend. And in the Scottish Cup, they have made it to the quarter-finals, where they will be taking on Hearts.
Hearts have been in decent form this season and currently sit at third in the Premiership table. The fact that the game will be played at Tynecastle Park will also be an advantage to them.
Due to Scottish Cup ticketing rules, Celtic fans will have the entirety of the Roseburn stand available to them. On the other hand, it appears that Hearts are looking to build up their own fan atmosphere for the game as well and made an announcement regarding the ultras.
A statement on Hearts’ official website goes on to read:
"For this important game, the Gorgie Ultras fans’ group will be located in Lower Section X of the Gorgie Stand. The addition of the Gorgie Ultras has helped to generate an atmosphere befitting of Tynecastle Park, with players and management regularly commenting how much it aids the performance on the pitch. The club hopes that this will continue as we bid to return to Hampden."
Hearts release statement regarding Ultras ahead of Scottish Cup game vs Celtic
It is safe to say that an away trip to Tynecastle Park to take on Hearts in a knockout game is going to be tricky for Celtic. Robbie Nielson’s side are more than capable of cropping up with an upset on their day.
Thus, Celtic must take their A-game to Tynecastle Park. But at the same time, if they are at the top of their game, then it feels like they would be the favourites to go through to the semis.
Before that, Celtic have some very important games though, especially the upcoming Scottish League Cup final against the Rangers. Not only is silverware up on the line but it is the Glasgow Derby as well. That comes with its own unique pressure and hopefully, the Bhoys will be completely focused on that.