Late Heroics from Dabbagh Send Dons to Hampden Final
In a match that had everything – red cards, extra-time drama, and a last-gasp winner – Aberdeen booked their place in the Scottish Cup final for the first time since 2017 with a 2-1 victory over a valiant but ultimately depleted Hearts side. The semi-final at Hampden Park will be remembered for Palestinian substitute Oday Dabbagh’s 118th-minute strike that broke Hearts’ resistance after they’d played with ten men for over 75 minutes and finished with just nine.
Tactical Breakdown: How the Game Unfolded
First Half: Goals and Game-Changing Red Card
Hearts started brighter, with Jamie McCart and Elton Kabangu testing Aberdeen‘s defense early. However, against the run of play, Aberdeen took the lead in the 18th minute through Pape Gueye’s header that ricocheted off Hearts goalkeeper Craig Gordon.
The Jambos responded well, equalizing through captain Lawrence Shankland’s clinical finish in the 28th minute – his first goal since February. Just as the teams looked set to go into halftime level, disaster struck for Hearts when Michael Steinwender received a straight red for denying a clear goalscoring opportunity by hauling down Topi Keskinen.
Second Half: Hearts’ Resilient Rearguard Action
Neil Critchley made immediate tactical adjustments at halftime, switching to a 3-5-1 formation by introducing two center-backs for attackers. The 10-man Hearts displayed remarkable organization, limiting Aberdeen to half-chances despite the numerical disadvantage.
As Mostbet football analyst Mark Thompson noted: “Hearts’ defensive shape was textbook – they compressed space brilliantly and forced Aberdeen into predictable wide crosses that Gordon dealt with comfortably.”
Extra Time: Drama Until the Final Whistle
The match seemed destined for penalties until Cammy Devlin’s 116th-minute dismissal for a second yellow card left Hearts with nine men. Aberdeen finally broke through two minutes later when Dabbagh pounced on a rebound after Gordon saved Jack Milne’s effort.
Key Statistics That Decided the Match
| Metric | Aberdeen | Hearts |
|---|---|---|
| Shots | 18 | 9 |
| On Target | 5 | 3 |
| Possession | 58% | 42% |
| Red Cards | 0 | 2 |
What This Means for Both Clubs
For Aberdeen, this victory marks a potential turning point in Jimmy Thelin’s tenure. As Mostbet columnist Sarah Williamson observed: “Reaching a cup final could be the springboard Aberdeen need after an inconsistent league campaign.” They’ll face either Celtic or St Johnstone in the May 25 final.
Hearts’ brave performance couldn’t mask another disappointing result for Neil Critchley, whose position becomes increasingly precarious after failing to make the top six and now this cup exit. The manner of defeat – with two red cards – will concern fans who expect better discipline from their team.
Looking Ahead: Scottish Cup Final Preview
Aberdeen will enter the final as underdogs regardless of who they face, but their ability to grind out results in high-pressure situations makes them dangerous. Key players like Gueye and Dabbagh are hitting form at the perfect time, while the return of goalkeeper Dimitar Mitov from injury provides stability.
For more in-depth Scottish football analysis, stay tuned to Mostbet – your home for premium football content that goes beyond the scores to deliver tactical insights and expert opinions.
Will this be Aberdeen’s year to end their 34-year Scottish Cup drought? Share your predictions in the comments below!
