Leeds, Sheffield Wednesday Prepare for EFL Cup Clash Amid Squad Challenges

Sheffield Wednesday and Leeds United face off in the EFL Cup second round at Hillsborough in a high-stakes Yorkshire derby. Sheffield Wednesday have struggled this season with limited squad depth and off-field issues, while Leeds United, despite a heavy 5-0 defeat to Arsenal, are favored to win given their recent dominance in this fixture and deeper squad due to multiple summer signings. Leeds manager Daniel Farke is expected to balance squad rotation with fielding a strong side to advance, while Sheffield Wednesday's Henrik Pedersen may rely on youth players again due to limited options but faces difficult decisions about player fitness and experience. Both managers acknowledge the league remains the priority, but the cup presents a valuable chance for squad players to gain minutes and for the teams to assert local bragging rights. Fans of both clubs are eager for a win despite the challenges, with Leeds looking to maintain momentum after an opening day victory and Sheffield Wednesday aiming to avoid another heavy loss at home. The match is anticipated to be competitive, with Leeds likely controlling the game and betting tips favoring a high-scoring encounter.