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League: EPLSport: SoccerCountry: EnglandCategory: Playoffs

EFL Cup first round to start on weekend for 2026-27 season

3 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 7, 2026, 10:27 AM

Last updated Aug 7, 2026

EFL Cup first round to start on weekend for 2026-27 season
Summary

The 2026-27 EFL Cup first round begins on Thursday, August 6, 2026, with 33 of the 34 ties scheduled from Friday to Monday. This marks a deviation from the traditional midweek scheduling, as the competition now starts one week prior to the EFL league seasons. The change follows discussions with clubs to allow players more rest before the season starts. Premier League teams will not participate until the second round. Bristol City will kick off the competition against Walsall on the opening day.

Source Links
BBC SportYahoo Sports
By the Numbers
  • •EFL Cup first round starts on August 6, 2026.
  • •33 of 34 ties scheduled for the weekend.
  • •Traditional midweek fixtures replaced due to club consultations.
  • •Premier League clubs enter from the second round onward.
  • •Bristol City plays Walsall in the opening match.
Latest Updates
  • 10:27 AMBBC Sport — Why is the EFL Cup being played on a weekend?
  • 3:09 PMYahoo Sports — Why is the EFL Cup being played on a weekend?
What they're saying
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The bulk of the EFL cup's first round fixtures will take place on a weekend, despite traditionally being a midweek cup competition.

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The bulk of the EFL cup's first round fixtures will take place on a weekend, despite traditionally being a midweek cup competition.

Related Teams & Leagues
Manchester CityEPLSoccer

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