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Clough supports EFL Cup opening round shift to August kickoff

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 4, 2026, 2:06 PM

Last updated Aug 4, 2026

Clough supports EFL Cup opening round shift to August kickoff

Summary

Mansfield Town manager Nigel Clough endorses the decision to move the EFL Cup first round to the weekend of August 7-9, just before the start of the new league season. Clough believes this change will enhance the quality of fixtures, allowing teams to field stronger sides without the midweek congestion that has historically characterized the competition. He aims for fewer weakened teams and more competitive matches leading into the new season. Mansfield Town will host Sheffield United in the first round.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•EFL Cup first round now set for August 7-9.
•Clough believes stronger teams will compete due to schedule change.
•Mansfield Town faces Sheffield United at home in the first round.

Latest Updates

2:06 PMYahoo Sports — Clough backs move to open season with EFL Cup games

What they're saying

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Mansfield Town manager Nigel Clough says the change in schedule for the first round of the EFL Cup will lead to better quality fixtures.
— Yahoo Sports

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