The Scottish League Cup clash between Hamilton Academical and Ross County is set to take place on July 23, 2024. As both teams gear up for this crucial fixture, here’s a detailed look at the prediction, team news, form, and more.
Team to Win
Hamilton Academical
Hamilton Academical, a second-tier side, are entering this match with determination.
They recently returned to the Championship after winning the playoffs against Alloa Athletic and Inverness Caledonian Thistle.
The Accies aim to make it to the League Cup knockout rounds for the first time since the 2019-20 season.
Ross County
Ross County, a Scottish Premiership club, managed to retain their top-flight status via relegation playoffs with an impressive 6-1 aggregate win over Raith Rovers.
The Staggies have a strong record in the League Cup and will be looking to advance to the knockout stages for the third consecutive season.
Form
Hamilton Academical's Recent Form
Stirling Albion (Draw): Hamilton started the 2024-25 League Cup campaign with a goalless draw against Stirling Albion, losing the bonus point in the penalty shootout.
Stranraer (Win): They bounced back with a commanding 3-0 victory over Stranraer, thanks to goals from Steven Bradley, Kyle MacDonald, and Euan Henderson.
Ross County's Recent Form
Stranraer (Win): Ross County opened their League Cup campaign with a 3-1 win against Stranraer.
Raith Rovers (Win): They followed this up with a 2-1 victory over Raith Rovers, securing a last-minute winner from George Harmon.
Team News
Hamilton Academical
Fergus Owens: The defender will miss the entire 2024-25 season due to a knee injury.
Ben Williamson: He is doubtful for this match after being forced off in the first half of the game against Stranraer.
Key Player: Kevin O'Hara, who scored 20 goals in the 2023-24 season, will be a significant goal threat.
Ross County
Injuries: Will Nightingale and Max Sheaf are out due to knee and thigh injuries, respectively.
Defender Michee Efete: He is pushing for a starting spot after appearing as a substitute in previous matches.
Key Player: Jordan White, with three goals in the first two League Cup games, is in excellent form and will be pivotal in their attack alongside Eamonn Brophy.
Predicted Lineups
Hamilton Academical
Possible XI: Lyness; MacDonald, Kilday, McGinty, Hendrie; Maguire, Barjonas; Bradley, Shaw, Henderson; O'Hara.
Ross County
Possible XI: Laidlaw; Efete, Wright, Lamie; Brown, Randall, Loturi, Harmon; Telfer; Brophy, White.
Prediction
Ross County’s quality and form suggest they will edge out Hamilton Academical in this fixture, continuing their strong performance in the League Cup.
Our Prediction: Hamilton Academical 1 - 2 Ross County
Ross County 
Hamilton 
