Ross County will host Stirling Albion at the Global Energy Stadium for a Scottish League Cup group stage clash.
This match sees Ross County, a Scottish Premiership side, face off against fourth-tier Stirling Albion. The hosts are currently leading their group, while the visitors sit in fourth place.
Team Form
Ross County
Ross County has demonstrated their top-flight capabilities with three successive victories in their League Cup campaign.
Their journey began with a 3-1 away win against Stranraer, followed by a 2-1 home victory over Raith Rovers.
Most recently, they secured another 2-1 win against Hamilton Academical, showcasing their resilience by coming from behind.
These results leave Ross County at the top of their group, three points clear of second-placed Raith Rovers, and well-positioned to progress to the knockout stages for the second consecutive season.
Stirling Albion
Stirling Albion, relegated from League One last season, has had a challenging start to their League Cup campaign.
They suffered a heavy 3-0 defeat at home to Raith Rovers, managed to secure two points against Hamilton Academical after a goalless draw and a penalty shootout victory.
Their latest match saw them give up a two-goal lead to draw 2-2 with Stranraer, only to win the subsequent penalty shootout.
Despite these efforts, Stirling Albion is unlikely to advance to the last-16 but will aim for their first competitive win against Ross County since February 2000.
Team News
Ross County
Ross County will likely be without defender Will Nightingale and midfielder Max Sheaf due to injuries.
Victor Loturi, who featured as a substitute in the last game, may return to the starting lineup. New loan signing Jack Grieves could also be an option off the bench.
Stirling Albion
Stirling Albion will miss defender Sam Denham due to injury. Baily Dall, recently on loan from Hearts, is expected to continue in the starting lineup following his debut against Stranraer.
Predicted Lineups
Ross County: Hamilton; Brown, Wright, Leak; Efete, Randall, Loturi, Reid; Hale, Samuel, White
Stirling Albion: Gaston; McGeachie, Sula, Waugh, Dall; Crane, Ewen, McKinley, Wright; Weir; Roy
Prediction
Given their current form and higher league status, Ross County is expected to continue their winning streak.
Our prediction for this match is a 2-0 victory for Ross County, securing their place in the knockout stages of the Scottish League Cup.