Stockport County vs Wigan Athletic Prediction 11.11.2025 | EFL Trophy

Since their best-ever run in the tournament, reaching the semi-finals in the 1996-97 campaign, Stockport County have struggled to make a significant impact, failing to progress beyond the second round in each of their last six editions.

At present, the Hatters hold their destiny in the knockout stages in their own hands, but they cannot afford to rest on their laurels. They are level on points with Wolves U23 ahead of the third and final match of the section, meaning progression from the group stage will come only after a hard-fought contest.

Confidence has taken a hit ahead of this decisive EFL Trophy clash, following a heavy 3-0 defeat to Luton Town at the weekend, which brought an end to a bright run of four consecutive successes across all competitions.

Fortunately, manager Dave Challinor has no injury concerns, meaning he can call upon his full-strength squad and is expected to field his strongest possible lineup in pursuit of the victory they desperately need.

Historically, Wigan Athletic have found themselves on the winners’ podium in this competition only twice, back in the late 20th century during the 1984-85 and 1988-89 seasons. Since then, the Latics have rarely progressed deep into the tournament.

At present, they are on the brink of an early exit, struggling in the group stage after defeats to Salford 2-0 and Wolves U23 2-1. A remarkable turnaround will be required for them to secure second place and advance to the final stages.

While the chance to finish in the top two remains alive, Ryan Lowe’s side must adopt an attacking approach, aiming to defeat Stockport by at least a two-goal margin, while simultaneously hoping Salford can trouble Wolves U23 — a scenario that is far from impossible, but certainly challenging.

Wigan’s chances of securing a convincing win are further hampered by a lack of cutting edge in the final third, as they have failed to score more than once in any of their last ten competitive matches.

On a positive note, aside from James Carragher, who is away on international duty with Malta for November World Cup qualifiers, manager Ryan Lowe has all other key players available and is expected to field his full-strength squad in an attempt to revive their campaign.