Claudio Braga struck late to secure a thrilling point for Hearts in a dramatic Scottish Premiership clash with Celtic, who were reduced to 10 men and denied a crucial victory in the title race.
Celtic made a bright start and took an early lead through Benjamin Nygren, whose expertly curled free-kick left Craig Gordon with no chance.
Hearts responded with growing confidence, and Stuart Findlay eventually headed home an equaliser to reward their pressure.
The momentum swung back in Celtic’s favour when Yang Hyun-jun finished a swift counter-attack, seemingly putting the visitors on course for their first win over Hearts in three meetings this season.
But the game turned again when centre-back Auston Trusty was sent off after a VAR review upgraded his booking to a red card for a last-man challenge on Pierre Landry Kabore.
With Celtic under intense pressure, Braga pounced four minutes from time, firing home from close range in a crowded penalty area to level the score and spark wild celebrations among the home supporters.
Hearts pushed for a winner in the closing moments, but Blair Spittal’s effort struck the crossbar as the match ended in a breathless draw.
Despite dropping points, Hearts remain top of the Premiership table, now four points clear after Rangers moved above Celtic into second with a win over Dundee.
Celtic, meanwhile, sit third but remain within touching distance of the leaders.
The match was a showcase of intensity and resilience from both sides.
Hearts were forced to cope without several key players, including captain Lawrence Shankland and midfielders Cammy Devlin and Beni Baningime, while Celtic handed debuts to new signing Tomas Cvancara and midfielder Marc Leonard in a high-pressure encounter.
For Celtic manager Martin O’Neill, the draw extended his unbeaten run but ended hopes of another league win, while Hearts coach Derek McInnes will take encouragement from his side’s fighting spirit.
With Rangers now firmly in contention, the Scottish title race is shaping up to be one of the most competitive in recent years.
Hearts head coach Derek McInnes: "On chances created and overall territory, it felt like we were the better team and were the more likely to win it.
"The game played out the way we wanted. We unsettled Celtic, but we missed chances.
"We are a wee bit disappointed that we did not take all three points. Most teams would have been happy with a point against a team like Celtic, but we rattled them."
Celtic interim manager Martin O'Neill: "It was a tough game - we knew it would be. Hearts are up there in the league because they are a very fine side, but we fought magnificently again.
"It is not a red card. It is gone now, but it played a massive part. I've seen it back and I have to say I don't see it."
