Expect Hearts to line up in their usual 4-2-3-1, with a double pivot shielding the back four and a number ten pulling the strings between the lines. The full-backs will push high, looking to overload the wide areas and whip crosses into the box. Rapid, by contrast, are likely to set up in a 4-3-3, with a midfield three that can dominate possession and a front line that likes to stretch play. This is a classic clash of shapes — Hearts will look to be compact and hit on the break, while Rapid will try to control the tempo and play through the thirds.

The midfield dogfight will be key. Hearts' double pivot will need to screen the defence and cut off the supply to Rapid's wide forwards. If they can win the second balls and spring quick transitions, they will cause problems. Rapid's full-backs like to get forward, which leaves space in behind — space that Hearts' wide men and the number ten can exploit. Set pieces could also be a factor. Hearts have height and physicality, and with Tynecastle's tight pitch, corners and free-kicks become genuine goal threats.

The game state is likely to be tight early. Rapid will be happy to keep it compact and frustrate the home crowd, but Hearts have the tools to break them down. The key is patience. If Hearts can score first, the place will erupt and Rapid will have to come out — which plays right into the home side's hands. We expect a cagey opening, but the longer it stays level, the more the crowd will push Hearts forward.