Hibernian comfortably booked their place in the League Cup semi‑finals after delivering a dominant 3‑0 performance against Ross County at the Inverness‑based venue in Dingwall. The fixture evoked memories of the club’s past cup triumphs, notably the 2010 victory and the memorable 2016 final, yet this time the Highland side could not replicate those celebratory moments. The match got off to a rapid start, with Hibs taking the initiative within the first quarter‑hour.
In the seventh minute, Thibault Klidje rose above the County defence to meet a cross and directed a powerful header into the bottom corner, giving the visitors an early lead. Just seven minutes later, a foul was called on Ross County defender Akil Wright, who was judged to have pulled down Jason Kerr from a corner taken by Felix Passlack. The resulting penalty was calmly converted by Adam Mayor, extending the lead to 2‑0 and putting the home side under immediate pressure. The early double gave David Gray’s side a comfortable cushion and allowed them to settle into a rhythm of controlled possession and incisive passing.
The visitors continued to press, and six minutes before the interval, Ante Suto added a third goal. The build‑up involved clever interplay between midfielders Josh Mulligan and Callum Wright, who combined to create space on the edge of the box. Suto met a low cross from Jack Iredale with a well‑timed header that beat the goalkeeper, making the scoreline 3‑0 and effectively sealing the tie.
Ross County attempted to respond after the break, switching to a back‑three formation in an effort to tighten the defence and create a platform for a comeback. However, Hibernian’s attacking intent remained undiminished. A series of dangerous set‑pieces saw County’s Jason Kerr head over the bar from a corner, while later in the half, Mayor found Nathan Lowe with a cross that was mis‑directed by the Hibs substitute, resulting in a wide shot. Despite a few moments of promise – Suto nearly added a fourth when his header from Iredale’s cross sailed just over the bar, and Kerr forced a good save from Brad Foster – the Staggies never truly threatened to overturn the deficit.
Hibernian managed the final minutes with composure, seeing out the game without conceding any further chances, and secured their progression to the semi‑finals. In another quarter‑final encounter, Aberdeen’s manager Stephen Robinson celebrated a dramatic victory that saw his ten‑man side advance to the Premier Sports Cup semi‑finals after a tense penalty shoot‑out against Kilmarnock. The Dons had been under scrutiny after four league fixtures without finding the net, and the pressure on Robinson was mounting. The match took a dramatic turn when Aberdeen’s Kevin Nisbet opened the scoring with a header from a Connor Ronan cross, only for Ross County to equalise through Tyreece John‑Jules after Daniel Happe was sent off for a professional foul.
The game progressed to extra time with the score level at 1‑1. Both teams created several opportunities, but neither could break the deadlock, leading to a penalty shoot‑out. Aberdeen’s goalkeeper Marius Müller proved decisive, making saves from John‑Jules, Mark O’Hara and Aaron Tshibola.
The shoot‑out concluded with Jack Milne converting the decisive penalty, giving the Dons a 3‑1 win on penalties. The victory sparked jubilant celebrations among Aberdeen supporters, who spilled onto the pitch alongside fans of Hearts and Hibernian, all reveling in the prospect of a Scottish Cup semi‑final showdown.
In contrast, Kilmarnock’s supporters expressed disappointment, aware that the defeat added further strain on manager Neil McCann. Overall, the two quarter‑finals highlighted the intensity and unpredictability of cup football in Scotland.
Hibernian’s efficient, early‑goal strategy and Aberdeen’s resilience under pressure both demonstrated the qualities required to advance in knockout competitions. As the semi‑finals approach, fans can anticipate high‑stakes matches that could shape the remainder of the tournament, with Hibs and Aberdeen now positioned as strong contenders for the trophy. The upcoming semi‑finals promise to deliver further excitement, as the clubs will need to navigate tactical adjustments, manage player fatigue, and maintain the mental focus required for high‑pressure encounters.
Both Hibernian and Aberdeen will look to build on their recent performances, aiming to add another piece of silverware to their respective histories and provide their supporters with memorable moments in the closing stages of the League Cup.