National League season starts with 24 teams vying for promotion
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 7, 2026, 7:35 AM
Last updated Aug 7, 2026
The National League season begins today, featuring 24 teams competing for two promotion spots to the EFL. Last season saw a dramatic finish with Rochdale and York City exchanging late goals to secure promotions. Carlisle United, having finished third last season, aims to improve after a playoff disappointment and begins this campaign under new management with Rob Elliot. Boreham Wood hopes to build on their strong performance from last season. New heads at clubs such as Southend United and Hartlepool United bring added expectations as they prepare for competition in this year’s league.
- •National League kicks off with 24 teams competing.
- •Rochdale and York City promoted last season after a dramatic finish.
- •Carlisle United starts the season aiming for promotion.
- •Boreham Wood looks to build on a strong previous campaign.
- •New managers at Southend United and Hartlepool United bring fresh hopes.
- 7:35 AMYahoo Sports — Who can emulate York and Rochdale in National League this season?
"The National League kicks off on Saturday, with 24 teams ready to fight for those two promotion spots up to the EFL.
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