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McEntee discusses Hearts' style change under Vrancken ahead of Benfica match

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 12, 2026, 4:26 PM

Last updated Aug 12, 2026

McEntee discusses Hearts' style change under Vrancken ahead of Benfica match

Summary

Oisin McEntee expressed satisfaction with Hearts' shift in playing style under new manager Wouter Vrancken. The team is moving away from long-ball tactics to a more structured approach that emphasizes building from the back and creating patterns of play. McEntee noted the importance of adapting to this new style, especially as they prepare to face Benfica after trailing 6-1 from the first leg. He mentioned that competing against top teams helps the players improve and prepares them for upcoming challenges. Hearts aim to secure European group-stage football despite the daunting deficit.

Source Links

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By the Numbers

•Oisin McEntee enjoys the tactical shift under Wouter Vrancken.
•Hearts lost 6-1 to Benfica in the first leg.
•New strategy focuses on building from the back.
•Players aim to improve against top teams like Benfica.
•Hearts remain hopeful for a European group-stage spot.

Latest Updates

4:26 PMYahoo Sports — McEntee relishing Hearts' change of style under Vrancken

What they're saying

"
Oisin McEntee says he is enjoying a different style of play under new Hearts boss Wouter Vrancken, with less emphasis on "long-ball" football and a greater focus on "building from the back" and "patterns of play". The more direct style under Derek McInnes came very close to winning Hearts their first top-flight title in 60 years, but it is now a case of adapting to new manager Vrancken's demands. "I think just the patterns of play is probably the main thing," McEntee said.
— Yahoo Sports

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