EFL Cup Matches Across England Decide UEFA Qualification

The 2025-2026 EFL Cup features all 72 Football League clubs entering in the first round, with Premier League teams joining in the second or third round depending on their European commitments. Newcastle United are the reigning champions, having ended a 70-year domestic trophy drought with a victory over Liverpool at Wembley last season, thanks to Alexander Isak's decisive performance. The competition offers clubs the opportunity to secure both a trophy and qualification for next season’s UEFA competitions. The final is scheduled for March 22, 2026, at Wembley Stadium, continuing its tradition as the venue for the decisive match. Current matches include Sheffield Wednesday vs. Leeds United, Wigan Athletic vs. Stockport County, AFC Bournemouth vs. Brentford, Bromley vs. Wycombe Wanderers, and Cambridge United vs. Charlton Athletic, with live coverage available for each game. Fans can follow the progress of these fixtures through live blogs as the tournament progresses.