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Europa Conference League

Hearts defeat Rapid Wien on penalties despite a red card to qualify for the Europa Conference League

Hearts are through to the Europa Conference League group stage after edging past Rapid Wien in the play-offs tonight.

Hearts travelled to Austria desperate not to falter on enemy territory after a 2-2 draw in Scotland. 

They fell 1-0 behind in the 34th minute as Ercan Kara gave the home side the lead.

Things went from bad to worse as Tomas Magnusson, on as an early substitute to replace Tom Renaud, picked up a second yellow after 76 minutes.

However, Hearts got back into the game moments later when Pierre Landry Kabore restored parity.

Hearts thought they had the win in the bag when Calvin Miller gave them the lead in extra time with a stunning acrobatic effort.

They failed to hold on as the home side scored a minute from time to force penalties. Hearts won 4-3 on penalties to book their place in the Europa Conference League.

Celtic’s remarkable capitulation in the Champions League play-off against Austrian side LASK, despite holding a 4-0 lead, was a warning. Hearts stepped up.

After enduring the pain of missing out on the Scottish Premiership title last season on the final day and losing to Sturm Graz and Benfica in their bid for European football, they delivered a spirited performance.

New manager Wouter Vrancken will hope to repair their defensive frailties in the coming weeks. They must address this to have a chance of knocking Celtic off their perch.

The Europa Conference League group phase draw takes place on Friday.

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