EFL Cup Wednesday Preview: Big Names and Giant-Killers
The EFL Cup heats up this Wednesday with some fascinating ties. From top-flight giants visiting lower-league sides to local derbies, there’s plenty to watch. Here’s the rundown of the biggest games, key players, and predictions.
Huddersfield Town vs Manchester City
Huddersfield head into this clash after a 0‑0 draw against Burton Albion. They’ve struggled to keep clean sheets recently but have been able to score in five of their last six games. Key players like Sorba Thomas and Lewis O’Brien will look to provide creativity, while Jordan Rhodes could lead the attack.
Manchester City are coming off a 1‑1 draw with Arsenal in the Premier League. Erling Haaland remains their main goal threat, supported by Kevin De Bruyne and Phil Foden. Historically, City have dominated this fixture, winning 83% of encounters since 2017, and games between these two have averaged four goals.
Expect City to control possession and break through Huddersfield’s defence, but the Terriers could find the net once.
Prediction: Huddersfield 1‑2 Manchester City
Newcastle United vs Bradford City
Newcastle are coming off a 0‑0 draw with Bournemouth, struggling to find consistent attacking form. Callum Wilson and Alexander Isak will be key if the Magpies want to break Bradford’s resistance.
Bradford City, meanwhile, are on a hot streak with a 3‑1 League One win over Cardiff City. Tommy Leigh, Antoni Sarcevic, and Josh Neufville have been crucial for their scoring tally, but their defence has been vulnerable in five of the last six games.
While Bradford could surprise, Newcastle’s quality should see them through.
Prediction: Newcastle 3‑1 Bradford City
Tottenham Hotspur vs Doncaster Rovers
Tottenham drawed 2‑2 with Brighton last weekend, showing solid control in midfield. Richarlison leads the attack, supported by Dejan Kulusevski and James Maddison (when available). Spurs’ defence has been impressive, conceding just three goals in the last six games.
Doncaster Rovers have been inconsistent, but Owen Bailey remains their key outlet up front. Against a dominant Tottenham side, however, scoring will be tough. Expect the Premier League team to dictate play.
Prediction: Tottenham 3‑0 Doncaster Rovers
Port Vale vs Arsenal
Port Vale are coming off a 2‑1 win over Mansfield Town and have scored 11 goals in their last six matches. Mo Faal is unavailable, but the team has shown resilience in attack.
Arsenal drew 1‑1 with Manchester City, with Gabriel Martinelli scoring the equaliser. Mikel Arteta’s side are strong defensively, conceding just once in their last six matches, and will rely on Bukayo Saka and Martinelli to lead the front line.
Port Vale may get a goal, but Arsenal’s quality should be decisive.
Prediction: Port Vale 1‑3 Arsenal
