Wigan - Stockport County

Wigan Athletic striker Joe Hugill enters matchday 5 of the League One season with renewed confidence after his side dispatched Milton Keynes Dons 3-1 on 2 September 2026. That result provided a vital response to a difficult spell, helping the hosts move past a narrow defeat at AFC Wimbledon and a frustrating home loss to Leyton Orient. With the side showing an ability to find the net regularly, the challenge for the hosts at The Brick Community Stadium is to maintain that attacking rhythm against a visiting team that has proven difficult to contain.

Stockport County arrive looking to rebound from a 2-0 loss to Luton Town on 2 September 2026. Their form has been defined by high-scoring encounters, evidenced by a clinical 5-1 victory over Wycombe Wanderers in late August. Having enjoyed the better of the head-to-head meetings in recent seasons, including a 4-2 win on 21 February 2026, the visitors will look to exploit any gaps in the Wigan backline. This match will likely be decided by which side can better manage the defensive transitions after their respective midweek fixtures.