Hearts 1-1 Dundee United: Post-match review, Stats, Key moments

Well, that was a bit of a rollercoaster at Tynecastle, wasn’t it? Hearts, coming off a string of impressive wins, were probably expecting to keep the momentum going, but Dundee United had other plans. The game ended in a 1-1 draw, with an own goal for Hearts in the 25th minute and a well-taken goal by Dundee United’s Stephenson just before half-time.

Given Hearts’ recent form, including a 4-0 thrashing of Dundee and a 3-1 victory over Celtic, this result might come as a bit of a surprise. Dundee United, on the other hand, managed to halt their own losing streak after a 0-2 defeat to Motherwell, showing some resilience and grit.

The match was a testament to the unpredictability of football. Hearts dominated possession and had more corners, but Dundee United’s efficiency in front of goal and their higher successful dribble rate kept them in the game. Both teams made tactical adjustments, with Hearts making five substitutions compared to Dundee United’s none, but it wasn’t enough to break the deadlock. It’s clear that Dundee United’s defensive setup frustrated Hearts, who couldn’t quite find the breakthrough despite their efforts.

Looking at the stats, Hearts had the lion’s share of possession with 63% compared to Dundee United’s 37%. This dominance was reflected in their four corners to Dundee United’s three, showing they were pushing for a winner. However, Dundee United were more effective in their dribbling, boasting a 58% success rate compared to Hearts’ 20%. This suggests that while Hearts controlled the ball, Dundee United were more incisive when they had it.

The disciplinary aspect of the game was also notable, with Dundee United picking up four yellow cards to Hearts’ two. This might indicate a more physical approach from Dundee United, who were perhaps trying to disrupt Hearts’ rhythm. Despite the possession stats, the game was closely contested, and the statistics highlight how both teams had their moments of control and pressure.

The key moments of the match were pivotal in shaping the result. Hearts found themselves behind early after an unfortunate own goal in the 25th minute, setting the tone for a challenging afternoon. Dundee United then took the lead just before half-time with a well-executed goal from Stephenson, assisted by Fatah, showing their clinical edge.

The second half saw Hearts making multiple substitutions in an attempt to change the game’s dynamics, but they couldn’t find the winning goal. The match was also marked by several yellow cards, with Dundee United picking up four, indicating a feisty encounter. These moments were crucial in determining the final scoreline and the game's flow.

Hearts lined up in a 4-4-2 formation, with Alexander Schwolow in goal and a backline of Oisin McEntee, Craig Halkett, Stuart Findlay, and Harry Milne. The midfield was anchored by Cláudio Braga and Tómas Bent Magnússon, with Cammy Devlin and Alexandros Kyziridis providing width. Up front, Lawrence Shankland and Pierre Landry Kabore led the line. This setup allowed Hearts to control possession and push forward, but they struggled to break down Dundee United’s defence.

Dundee United opted for a 3-4-3 formation, with Yevgeniy Kucherenko between the sticks and a back three of Iurie Iovu, Bert Esselink, and Krisztián Keresztes. The midfield was manned by L. Stephenson, Vicko Sevelj, Panutche Camara, and Dario Naamo, with Ivan Dolcek, Zachary Sapsford, and Amar Fatah up top. This formation provided a solid defensive structure, which frustrated Hearts and allowed Dundee United to counter effectively.

Ladbrokes’ Man of the Match goes to Luca Stephenson of Dundee United. His goal just before half-time was crucial in securing a point for his team, and his performance was pivotal in a match where goals were at a premium. With an assist from Fatah, Stephenson showed composure and skill to level the score, and his contribution was key in a game that could have easily slipped away.

Recent Premiership matches:

• Draw: 1-1 vs Dundee United (H)
• Win: 4-0 vs Dundee (H)
• Draw: 2-2 vs St. Mirren (A)
• Win: 3-1 vs Celtic (H)
• Win: 3-0 vs Kilmarnock (A)

Recent Premiership matches:

• Draw: 1-1 vs Hearts (A)
• Loss: 0-2 vs Motherwell (A)
• Win: 3-1 vs St. Mirren (H)
• Draw: 2-2 vs Rangers (A)
• Draw: 1-1 vs Livingston (H)

Currently in 1st place with 30 points, Hearts will face Aberdeen, who are in 8th place with 11 points, on November 23, 2025, at 15:00.

Sitting in 7th place with 14 points, Dundee United’s next match is against Falkirk, who are in 5th place with 16 points, on November 22, 2025, at 15:00.

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