Rangers vs Annan: Match Predictions

A Classic Cup Mismatch

The Scottish Cup Fourth Round presents a true David vs. Goliath battle as Premiership heavyweights Rangers welcome League Two side Annan Athletic to Ibrox. Broadcast live on Premier Sports 2, this Friday night fixture sees the hosts as overwhelming favorites. The betting markets reflect the chasm between the sides, with a home win priced at a miniscule 1.02. The draw sits at 20.0, while a monumental upset for Annan is quoted at 39.0.

Form Guide and Tactical Context

Rangers, managed by Danny Röhl, enter in formidable shape, sitting second in the Premiership and riding a wave of five consecutive victories. Their recent domestic form shows they average 1.8 goals scored and a tight 0.8 conceded per match. Annan Athletic, contrastingly, have struggled for consistency in the fourth tier, currently positioned 7th with a mixed record. Their matches, however, are often open, averaging a combined 3.2 total goals.

Key Betting Markets and Predictions

The predicted 1×2 result is firmly for a Rangers win (1), aligning with the market odds. The value, however minimal, lies in the goal markets. Both teams have seen Over 2.5 Goals in 6 of their last 10 respective matches. This trend informs the prediction of a 3-0 correct score, with a 2-0 half-time lead expected. While the odds for over 2.5 goals are low at 1.1, the statistical tendency for both sides suggests it’s the more probable outcome than the outright winner market offers any value. Remember, Annan have previous cup shock pedigree, like their 2025 win at Inverness, and Rangers themselves have pulled off unexpected away wins, but a repeat here seems a remote betting prospect.

For those seeking Data-Driven Football Predictions, this match exemplifies where the data points to a straightforward outcome. If you are interested in other leagues, check our Icelandic 2. Deild predictions.