Champions St Mirren, Dundee, Dundee United and Falkirk prepare for

Although the World Cup is still ongoing, Scottish football fans are starting to turn their attention to domestic competitions. Scotland's early international exit has kept fans focused on the domestic competition and, fortunately, some interesting action can be expected this Saturday. The group stage of the Premier Sports League Cup has begun, with four teams from the Scottish Premier League competing.

Reigning champions St Mirren begin their title defense away to Dumbarton. Last season was a roller coaster ride for St Mirren, who won the tournament in December by beating favorites Celtic 3-1 at Hampden Stadium. However, their manager Stephen Robinson then left the club in March and caretaker coach Craig McLeish took charge of the team for the remainder of the 2025-26 season. As a result, St Mirren were able to maintain their residence in the Premier League, winning the play-offs against Partick Thistle with a total score of 2:1, which allowed McLeish to take the post of head coach on a permanent basis.

In the other Group C match, East Kilbride will host Scottish Cup finalists Dunfermline Athletic. In contrast, Cove Rangers will not take part in these matches.

Dundee, who failed to make it out of the group stage last season, are now looking to bounce back. They face Airdrieonians at Dens Park on Saturday, who won 1-0 last year. Dundee coach Stephen Presley is hoping for a better result this season as he prepares his team to face opponents who will also be determined to win.

In the other Group D match, Annan Athletic will face Ross County. While Clyde misses this weekend.

This evening's match sees Dundee United play away to Stirling Albion in Group B. Representing Scotland in Europe last season, Dundee United missed out on the first round of the Cup but were knocked out in the second round by Kilmarnock. The team led by Jim Goodwin finished seventh in the Premier League last season.

Falkirk, who were one of the most talked about clubs last season, are also starting their run in the League Cup. Under the leadership of John McGinn, the team finished sixth in the Premier League after successful promotions. Falkirk progressed through the group stage unbeaten last season but were stopped in the round of 16 by Celtic, losing 4-1 away.

In other Group G matches, Stranraer will host Ayr United while Alloa Athletic will not play this weekend. Returning Championship clubs Aberdeen (Group A), Kilmarnock (Group H) and St Johnstone (Group F) will not begin their group campaigns until July 14.

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