Hearts are bidding to go three for three in the Conference League and make it a Bundesliga double for Scotland when they host Heidenheim at Tynecastle.
Neil Critchley enjoyed a European night to remember in Gorgie last time out as his troops downed Omonia Nicosia with two stunning goals and now they will test themselves against German opposition. The capital club remain in a strong position to reach the knockout stages which would prove a achievement for the capital club but they face a tough run of three fixtures in European competition starting with Heidenheim before trips to Cercle Brugge and Copenhagen – both teams faced by Kilmarnock earlier this year.
But the focus is on the here and now for Hearts and a famous European night under the lights would almost assure them of a place in the knockout stage. They go into this one off the back of a weekend win on the road at St Johnstone but can they make it back to back victories? Record Sport’s top team deliver their score predictions.
Fraser Wilson
The first bump in the Euro road could lie in wait for Hearts. Heidenheim may be a mid-ranking Bundesliga side but getting anything from this tie is still a tall order for a Jambos side who remain in the bottom two of the Premiership. To have any chance they’ll need to stiffen up at the back. Expect a good battle but Hearts to fall just short.
Hearts 1 Heidenheim 2
Keith Jackson
Hearts have handled the return to European competition far better than they have coped domestically since the start of the season. A point at home to a Bundesliga outfit would represent another statement result – and give Neil Critchley serious momentum back on the home front.
Hearts 1 Heidenheim 1
Gavin Berry
Both teams have been in struggling form recently and goals have been a problem. Expect a low scoring game but the German’s can edge it.
Hearts 0 Heidenheim 1
Graeme Young
Hearts would be in dreamland with a third consecutive Europa League victory and the Omonia win is the template for any Scottish side aiming to make strides in Europe. But Heidenheim, managed by Frank Schmidt for the past 17 years, have been dreaming of nights like these on their remarkable rise from the fifth tier. Expect a Gorgie classic but Bundesliga class to shine through.
Hearts 1 Heidenheim 2
Andy Newport
The Germans are no great shakes by Bundesliga standards but with Hearts still finding their feet under Neil Critchley, it might be a test too soon for the Jambos.
Hearts 0 Heidenheim 2