Ross County v Livingston: Forecast, Odds and Bets

May 24, 2025

The return leg of the Scottish Premiership relegation/promotion play-off between Ross County and Livingston takes place on May 26, 2025. The match kicks off at 21:00 CEST in Italy, Germany, France and Spain, and at 20:00 BST in the UK. Fans can catch the action live from Ross County’s Global Energy Stadium, where the home side will look to overturn or build upon the 1-1 draw from the first leg.

This fixture carries huge significance, as the victor will secure a spot in Scotland’s top flight next season. The two sides head into this game with everything to play for, and local supporters expect an intense encounter. With the aggregate score finely poised, both managers will be under pressure to deliver a performance capable of tipping the balance.

How are both teams coming into this?

Ross County could count themselves as favourites after a dramatic 95th-minute penalty from Ronan Hale rescued a draw at Livingston in the first leg. The Staggies have demonstrated resilience and belief throughout the play-off, and the home advantage at the Global Energy Stadium should give them a psychological edge. However, they will be without key defenders MacLeod, Allardyce, Chilvers and Leak, who are all sidelined through injury.

Livingston enter this clash with their own momentum, having forced Ross County to the wire in Dingwall. Managerial decisions will be crucial, as they seek to frustrate County’s attacking threats while hunting for an away goal that could swing the tie in their favour. Although they are viewed as underdogs by many bookmakers, the Lions’ counter-attacking threat and set-piece prowess make them a dangerous proposition late on.

Our forecast

We anticipate a cagey opening 20 minutes, with both sides keen to avoid early mistakes. Ross County’s ambition to press forward should see them dominate possession, but Livingston’s low block and quick transitions could yield chances on the break. A first goal for the hosts would put significant pressure on the visitors and force Livingston to open up.

Our forecast is for a tight contest decided by a single goal. We lean towards Ross County edging this game 2-1 on the night (3-2 on aggregate), as their home support and recent form suggest they can do just enough. However, a draw or a narrow victory for Livingston cannot be ruled out, especially if they exploit set-piece opportunities.