Aberdeen v Hearts: Pittodrie opener pits five-win surge against mixed run | OneFootball

Aberdeen host Hearts in the Scottish Premiership opener at Pittodrie Stadium on Saturday, 1 August 2026, with both sides chasing a fast start after contrasting warm-ups.

Aberdeen and Hearts split last season's league meetings by a goal, the Dons winning 1-0 at Pittodrie in November before Hearts edged the return 1-0 in February.

The Dons arrive with momentum, stringing together five straight wins in July, including emphatic 4-1 and 3-0 scorelines. The Jambos' tune-up was mixed, with three wins in five offset by two defeats to Sturm Graz.

With the stakes of an opener, rhythm could decide the tone. The Dons' recent multi-goal victories suggest they may look to impose themselves early, while the Jambos' tighter margins point to a more controlled approach that could keep the contest close.

Three points would put the winners on the board and high in the first week standings. The Jam Tarts then host Dundee United on Sunday, 9 August, while the Dons are set to visit Dundee on Saturday, 8 August.