EFL 2025-26: Carabao Cup – First Round Predictions and Preview

The wait is over. EFL 2025-26 began in style with the preliminary round. Fans can look forward to more excitement in the coming days. The most-awaited EFL first round is here. Dating back over 100 years, the English Football League is the oldest football league, established in 1888. It’s almost a century old; many teams were formed, many were terminated. But the spirit remains intact. The cultural significance of the EFL is so deep that the fans are helplessly intrigued every year. Not only in the UK, but also European, American, and Asian fans are engaged by the season. As much as any other major league, the EFL includes promotion and relegation criteria. Teams that perform with their soul earn the spot, whereas teams with low spirit lose it all. So, be prepared for any outcome. Get more of our trending football updates and news from anywhere.  

EFL Cup – Preliminary Round Recap

We are presented with a high-stakes showdown among four teams at the beginning of the English Football League season. Two new entrants and two bottom-of-the-table teams were scheduled to fight each other to survive the rest of the season. This match depicted a two-dogs-and-one-bone situation. Barnet and Newport were planned for a face-off, whereas Oldham Athletic clashed with Accrington Stanley. In the first match, Barnet fought with Newport County, ending the game with a draw of 2-2. However, a penalty shootout was arranged where Newport County scored two additional goals. On the other hand, Accrington Stanley won against Oldham with its superior possession and three early goals. They focused only on defense for the second half to protect their lead, which they eventually did. The preliminary round aimed to cut two teams and reduce fixture congestion. If you want more EFL updates and commentaries, tune in to Bettingpremier.

Barnet vs Newport County

The match occurred on July 29, 2025, at the Hive Stadium. As soon as the clash began, Barnet rushed to take the early lead before it’s too late. Their assists, shots on target, and passes were highly accurate. Barnet sent a dangerous cross into the box, but County’s solid defense cleared the possibility. Exactly at the 31^st minute, Newport County registered their first score. Cameron Antwi took the role and executed a sharp delivery into the corner line. Again, Newport County secured a point with Michael Reindorf’s composed finish. At halftime, Barnet was hopeless with a 0-2 score. In the second half, Bernet roared with pressure and more determination. Barnet maintained control and attacking pressure. However, for the entire 90 minutes, Newport’s defense was top-tier. Barnet scored twice in injury time after the 90th minute. However, in the penalty shootouts, Newport scored four goals and won.

Oldham Athletic vs Accrington Stanley

Accrington Stanley took down Oldham Athletic with effortless defending in the second half. In the EFL 2025-26 preliminary round, Accrington Stanley and Oldham Athletic fought for the EFL First Round qualification. Accrington dominated the first half. Popoola, an eighteen-year-old footballer, particularly turned everyone’s attention to him with his impressive first goal. With his first goal, he opened the game to Accrington’s favor in the 10th minute.  Mooney doubled the lead after seven minutes, solidifying their position. Josh Woods added the third goal as a final touch, gaining a significant lead. He fired a strong shot from outside the box after a front-line scramble. Oldham improved their gameplay in the second half, scoring their first goal. Their formation and coordination deployed maximum speed, giving a challenging play against Accrington. As a result, Accrington could not increase Oldham’s deficit score. However, Accrington strengthened its defense and won the match.

What’s Next?

Football fans and enthusiasts, note it down. The rest of the season promises a major showdown. You can surely expect everything from intense, suspenseful moments, deliberate red card moves, to on-field conflicts and tie-break drama. With players training for the upcoming EFL 2025-26, the home or away context is crucial. It predetermines the winners even before the kick-off. It is more interesting that the home pitch is given at random probability. You can’t decide who gets the fair advantage of playing at home. Therefore, this dynamic approach of fixing matches catalyzes peak football entertainment. Moreover, you will get to see more new players this year, who look promising. Lastly, the good news is that ITV will broadcast the Carabao Cup fixtures besides Sky Sports, giving wider coverage. Know the real insiders’ sports knowledge and betting odds only from Bettingpremier.

EFL 2025-26 Carabao Cup First Round – Predictions

Middlesbrough vs Doncaster Rovers

Middlesbrough and Doncaster Rovers are set for a thrilling EFL Cup encounter. The match starts on August 12, 2025, at 07:30 p.m. BST at Riverside Stadium.

Prediction

In this EFL First Round fixture, Middlesbrough is poised to take on Doncaster Rovers. When considering their strengths and weaknesses, it is apparent that both teams have exhibited similar competitiveness lately. In the head-to-head match history, Middlesbrough gains an upper hand, however. Both of these teams have clashed about 12 times. Middlesbrough has won 7 times, whereas Doncaster Rovers have won two, with three draws. In direct matches, Middlesbrough has consistently outperformed Rovers.

However, the recent form and current dynamics are crucial factors that must be considered. Recently, Middlesbrough got their manager replaced with a new one. Rob Edwards is the new manager who replaced Michael Carrick. Edwards’ approach was tactical, involving a back-five formation. This may contradict Bob’s possession-heavy approach. In contrast, Rovers’ recent performance is doing well, as observed in their last five matches. Hence, Doncaster Rover has the edge to win in this EFL match.

Stockport County vs Crewe Alexandra

Stockport County will engage in a high-stakes battle with Crewe Alexandra in the 2025-26 Carabao Cup. The tie will begin at 07:30 p.m. BST on August 12, 2025, at Edgeley Park.

Prediction

The fixture between Stockport County and Crewe Alexandra poses a pivotal question about Alexandra’s possibility of winning. Stockport County is currently in good form. Their last five match performances and outcomes reflect their explosive performance. They have won in three of their last five matches, with one draw and one loss. This says much about their attacking and defensive capabilities. Their tactical approaches, like high-pressing, counter-pressing, and creating attacks from the back, could easily disrupt Crewe Alexandra’s defensive wall.

On the other hand, the head-to-head stats also confirm the obviousness of Stockport County’s victory. They have played nine previous matches against each other. Stockport won five games out of nine, while Alexandra managed to win only two, with two matches drawn. Moreover, Stockport County displays tactical flexibility as they easily switch between formations. As a result, this EFL fixture is a win for Stockport County.

West Bromwich Albion vs Derby County

West Bromwich Albion host Derby County in a first-round Carabao Cup clash. Fans can catch the game on August 12, 2025, at 07:45 p.m. BST at The Hawthorns.

Prediction

Technical analysis provides significant insights into this EFL match between West Bromwich Albion and Derby County. The head-to-head record indicates a weaker side for West Bromwich as they have won in 5 out of 18 games. Bromwich’s record is underwhelming compared to Derby’s nine victories, potentially suggesting a weakness. But in the last five matches, Derby County has averaged 2.4 goals per game, boasting a strong recent form.

Furthermore, Bromwich is grappling with several key player injuries, including Bany, Dike, and Jed Wallace. Ryan Mason’s appointment adds tactical unpredictability to West Brom. Overall, Derby County is favored to win in this EFL tie.

Grimsby Town vs Shrewsbury Town

Grimsby Town welcome Shrewsbury Town for an exciting EFL Cup fixture. Kick-off is scheduled at 07:45 p.m. BST on August 12 at Blundell Park.

Prediction

With a strong recent form, Grimsby Town will clash with Shrewsbury Town in this exciting EFL Round One. Grimsby Town has won in four of its last five matches. They are progressing greatly in recent matches. This single feat surpasses Shrewsbury’s record. Even though their head-to-head record is similar, Grimsby Town shows a slight edge.

Shrewsbury’s recent form is poor, and nothing is great about it. They have won only one match, with two draws and two losses. Their average goal per game is 1.8, and their conceded average is 1.6. These two factors indicate a poor recent form and an overall advantage for Grimsby Town. Therefore, in this EFL match, Grimsby Town is undoubtedly the winner.

Bristol Rovers vs Cambridge United

Bristol Rovers will battle Cambridge United in the Carabao Cup opener. The match occurs on August 12, 2025, at 07:45 p.m. BST at Memorial Stadium.

Prediction

Bristol Rovers has a strong dominance in head-to-head matches, winning 8 out of 11 meetings. Conversely, Cambridge United has won only in 2 with a draw. This shows us what their typical clash would look like. However, we should not judge solely based on head-to-head matches alone. The recent form says something entirely different.

Bristol Rovers have never won a single game in the last five matches. They average at 0.8 in scoring and 0.8 in conceding. This poor current form exposes their weakness in attacking. On the other hand, Cambridge United won in 2 of their last five matches. They averaged 2.2 goals and conceded 0.4 goals. Cambridge United should comfortably beat Bristol Rovers in this EFL match.

Cardiff City vs Swindon Town

Cardiff City square off against Swindon Town in the EFL Cup first round. The clash will occur on August 12, 2025, at 07:45 p.m. BST at Cardiff City Stadium.

Prediction

Cardiff’s strong head-to-head record gives them an edge over Swindon. Cardiff City has secured four wins in the last five matches, while Swindon Town has won once. It indicates a more obvious advantage of Cardiff City in their head-to-head matches. This stark contrast in head-to-head match outcomes provides a significant edge to Cardiff City.

Moreover, this match is set to be played at Cardiff City Stadium, giving them the home advantage. Cardiff’s form boosts their advantage. Swindon’s 12th-place finish won’t match Cardiff’s strength. In this EFL match, Cardiff is assured of winning.

 

Wigan Athletic vs Notts County

Wigan Athletic go head-to-head with Notts County in the Carabao Cup. The fixture unfolds at 07:45 p.m. BST on August 12, 2025, at DW Stadium.

Prediction

Although the head-to-head record shows them relatively close, technical factors suggest a vulnerability for Notts. Notts County is known for its possession-based style and a 3-4-1-2 formation. However, their offensive ability raises some critical questions about defensive stability. This indicates their weaker defense at the back.

As a result, Wigan Athletic could easily exploit this opportunity. Wigan will actively look to capitalize on Notts’ defensive lapses, converting them into goals. Given Nott County’s potential defensive weakness and Wigan’s ability to be tactically flexible, Wigan Athletic has the edge. Therefore, Wigan Athletic will likely win in this EFL Cup fixture.

Barnsley vs Fleetwood Town

Barnsley and Fleetwood Town collide in the 2025 Carabao Cup first round. This match happens on August 13, 2025, at 07:45 p.m. BST at Oakwell Stadium.

Prediction

Based on the technical parameters, Barnsley is favored to win this EFL Cup match against Fleetwood Town. Barnsley holds the dominance in the head-to-head record. They won 6 out of 12 matches compared to Fleetwood’s two wins and four draws. Regarding tactics, Barnsley prefers to open with pressure and emphasizes building from the back. This could threaten Fleetwood in the opening minutes of the match.

While both teams deal with injuries, Barnsley actively seeks defensive reinforcement. This indicates a proactive approach to their weakness. Fleetwood’s has key players like Ronan Coughlan on the injury list. Even though their recent form is slightly better, Barnsley’s superior head-to-head form makes them the winner.

Huddersfield Town vs Leicester City

Huddersfield Town lock horns with Leicester City in an EFL Cup contest. The duel begins on August 13, 2025, at 07:45 p.m. BST at John Smith’s Stadium.

Prediction

Leicester has historically outperformed Huddersfield in head-to-head matches. Both teams have clashed fourteen times previously. In that time, Huddersfield has managed to win only one match with two draws. Conversely, Leicester City has won in eleven of those matchups, showcasing its dominance. Regarding recent form, Huddersfield is currently in second place in League One after their clean sheet victory against Leyton Orient.

In comparison, Leicester City is currently in the Premier League. Their recent form has averaged 1.6 goals per match and conceded 1.0 goals per match. Under David Wagner’s tactics, Huddersfield is known for a high-pressure game. They aim to unsettle their opponents and sustain possession. Defensively, they maintain a high defensive line, utilizing wingers in the half-spaces. On the other hand, Leicester will employ various tactics, depending on the situation. Leicester has the chance to break down Huddersfield. 

Birmingham City vs Sheffield United

Birmingham City will meet Sheffield United in a Carabao Cup showdown. The fixture will be held at St. Andrew’s Knighthead Park on August 13 at 08:00 p.m. BST.

Prediction

The Carabao Cup First Round match between Birmingham City and Sheffield United will be tightly contested. As each team shows the same tactics and power level, it is crucial to look at other factors. Birmingham City had a dominant style of play, using a 4-2-3-1 formation. With a strong emphasis on winning the ball and maintaining possession, Birmingham is preoccupied with not conceding a goal.

We can see Sheffield United’s decline while technically examining the strengths, weaknesses, and head-to-head match history. They have won in only five out of seventeen matches with Birmingham, where Birmingham has won in eight. Additionally, the recent individual team performances are also a concern. Sheffield United has won only one match and has four losses in the last five matches. In contrast, Birmingham won in four and lost one. Given both teams’ current form, Birmingham is assured of winning this tie.