The upcoming Scottish semi-final features two managers with notable histories in Belgian football, making their encounter a compelling subplot. Wouter Vrancken guided Sint-Truiden to a sixth-place finish—a club record—after years of near-misses in the top division. Marink Reedijk, meanwhile, achieved a rare feat with Beveren, leading them to an unbeaten promotion campaign last season.
Reedijk’s tenure at Hibs has been hindered by defensive vulnerabilities and a lack of goals, with only one goal scored in their last three matches. The club remains winless under his management, including a goalless draw at St Mirren that extended their winless streak. Unlike Hibs, Hearts have demonstrated clinical finishing, averaging over six shots on target per game and netting seven in their recent 7-1 defeat to Celtic.
Vrancken’s campaign with Sint-Truiden saw a dramatic 24-goal output, compared to Hibs’ meager 11. In their previous encounter, the Belgian coach’s side dominated the first half at Easter Road with relentless pressure. “We must channel our energy into focusing on the pitch, and nothing else,” Vrancken stated. “This is an all-or-nothing game with no room for error.”
Reedijk, expecting a “special night” with “elements of surprise,” emphasized the dual intensity of the fixture: “It’s not just the derby—it’s a semi-final where one step leads to a final. That adds a unique layer to the excitement.”