Tip: Kilmarnock to win
Kilmarnock enter the new season with a strong defensive record, having kept clean sheets in all four of their League Cup matches, recording three wins and one draw. Under new manager Stuart Kettlewell, the team looks stable and well-organized. In their most recent encounter in July, Killie beat Livingston 1-0, marking their fifth consecutive unbeaten match against this opponent. While Livingston did secure an impressive 6-0 win over Kelty Hearts, they have historically struggled against stronger sides and will likely be fighting to avoid relegation. Given Kilmarnock’s home form, defensive strength, and psychological advantage from the recent head-to-head victory, they are strongly favoured to start the season with a win.
Tip: Rangers to win
Rangers begin the new campaign under new coach Russell Martin and are in positive form – they are unbeaten in their last four competitive games and have advanced in the Champions League by defeating Panathinaikos. The team plays cohesively and boasts a significantly stronger and more experienced squad compared to the hosts. Although Motherwell are unbeaten in eight matches, most of these were against weaker opponents. Moreover, they've undergone several coaching changes and are still searching for stability. Rangers, on the other hand, appear ready to reclaim their dominance in the league, and this match offers the perfect opportunity to showcase their title aspirations. The quality and experience gap favours the visitors.
Tip: Dundee United to win
Dundee United had a strong previous season, finishing fourth in the league, and they are currently in good form – they kept two clean sheets in their Europa Conference League tie against UNA Strassen. The team plays in an organised and effective manner and has high ambitions for this campaign. Falkirk, although impressive with back-to-back promotions, are returning to the top flight after a long absence and will face a higher level of competition. Historically, Dundee United have dominated this fixture, and although Falkirk have won their last two home meetings, the quality and experience of the away team should prevail this time.
Tip: Draw
Both teams enter the season with uncertainty. Dundee did win their last two League Cup matches but failed earlier in the group stage and their overall form has been inconsistent. Hibernian, meanwhile, were eliminated from the Europa League qualifiers and have only two wins in their last 12 matches. Despite this, Hibs still have attacking talents such as Boyle and Bowie who can make a difference. Dundee are strong at home and will be eager to impress under their new manager. Given the current form and inconsistency of both sides, a draw appears to be the most likely outcome.
Tip: Celtic to win
Celtic start the season once again as the main title contenders, aiming to win their fifth consecutive league trophy. Their pre-season results underline their strength – with notable wins over Sporting Lisbon and Newcastle United. St Mirren have shown good results in the League Cup and friendlies, but they have struggled significantly against Celtic, failing to win any of the last 13 meetings, losing 11 of them. Playing at home, the Bhoys remain formidable, especially with key players like Idah, Maeda, and captain McGregor in form. Despite St Mirren’s resilience, the quality gap is clear, and a home victory for Celtic is the expected outcome.