EFL Cup Prediction Tips Preview: Depleted Elevens

After the madness of the first weekend of EFL, we have midweek EFL Cup action to contend with, as Matthew O’Regan readies his EFL Cup prediction tips preview.

Championship outfit Sheffield United welcome cup foes Wrexham, as Stoke travels to League Two Carlise on Tuesday. Elsewhere, Blackburn ready themselves for a depleted-looking Stockport lineup after their opening League One win of the season.

• Sheffield United vs Wrexham Tip 1: Sheffield United Over 5.5 Goal Kicks and Both Teams to Receive a Card
• Carlisle vs Stoke Tip 2: Million Manhoef to score
• Stockport vs Blackburn Tip 3: Blackburn to Win

Sheffield United vs Wrexham Prediction 1: Red Dragons breathing fire at Bramall Lane

England, EFL Cup, Tuesday, August 13th, 20:00 (UK)

Championship side Sheffield United host League One side Wrexham at Bramall Lane in front of the sky cameras. 

Sheffield United started their season with a resounding 0-2 win at Deepdale over Preston North End. This in turn saw Ryan Lowe subsequently lose his position as the Lillywhites boss. 

Wrexham opened their League One account with a 3-2 win over Wycombe, with Phil Parkinson’s side proficient in attack. 

These two sides met in the FA Cup in 2023 when Wrexham were in the National League. The first match was a topsy-turvy match, marred by controversy as Billy Sharp riled up the Welsh faithful. With them pitted against each other again, this match is seen as a potential grudge match, with Wrexham keen to inflict revenge against the Blades. 

Refereeing this affair is Keith Stroud – a referee who showed over 5.2 cards per game last season. Wrexham have a team full of aggressive players such as George Dobson and James Mclean, so expect them to come out firing. 

The Red Dragons’ high octane, physical, direct style of play often puts opposition defences under pressure. In fact, Wrexham opponents are averaging 10.65 goal kicks per game over the last 20 matches. Their opposition has seen at least six goal kicks in the last 18 matches, with the Wrexham drawing seven the last time these sides faced off. 

With Phil Parkinson’s side chasing a win and a card-happy referee, expect plenty of cards and attacking play.

• Sheffield United vs Wrexham Prediction 1: Sheffield United over 5.5 goal kicks and Both Teams to receive a card
• Best Odds: 2.10
• Bookmaker: bet365
• Stake: 10/10

Carlisle vs Stoke Prediction 2: Million-Dollar Mannhoef

Under the guidance of legendary manager Paul Simpson, Carlisle were promoted back to League One. However, a disappointing season ensued and the Cumbrians were relegated at the first time of asking. They opened up their season with a 1-4 drubbing at Gillingham and face a daunting task at home to Championship side Stoke. 

The Potters beat heavily fancied Coventry 1-0 in a proficient and professional performance that would have greatly pleased under-fire manager Steven Schumacher. 

One player who stood out on Saturday was Million Manhoef. The Dutch winger assisted the only goal of the game and had four shots. After joining Stoke in January, the 22-year-old scored four goals in nine starts – 0.44 goals per 90, from 0.36 xG per 90. He ended the season with a brace against Bristol City, showcasing his supreme talent. 

With a point to prove against a weak Carlisle defence, Manhoef looks a great price to score on Tuesday. 

• Carlisle vs Stoke Prediction 2: Million Manhoef to score
• Best Odds: 3.10
• Bookmaker: bet365
• Stake: 5/10

Stockport vs Blackburn Prediction 3: Injury Crisis at Edgeley Park

Stockport are riding a serious high at the moment. The Hatters won the League 2 in just their second season back at the level. David Challinor has built a supremely talented squad with an abundance of quality throughout – evident in the comfortable 2-0 win over Cambridge in the opener. 

Blackburn also started the season strong, beating Derby 4-2. However, things are not as rosey off the pitch at Ewood Park as it is at Edgeley Park. Unrest is mounting at the lack of investment from the board, with John Eustace expected to work with limited funds. 

Despite the feel-good factor surrounding Stockport, they are suffering some-what of an injury crisis at the moment. Challinor has admitted that rotation is to be expected, with just thirteen fit senior players. County are pushing for promotion to the Championship, so the EFL cup may be seen as the ideal opportunity to rest players and experiment with fringe players. 

Taking this into account and the league difference between the sides, Blackburn will be expecting to leave Edgeley Park with a victory and a safe passage into round two. 

• Stockport vs Blackburn Prediction 3: Blackburn to win (TRACKED BET)
• Best Odds: 1.75
• Bookmaker: bet365
• Stake: 10/10

EFL Cup Prediction odds via bet365 as at 09:00, March 1st, 2024. Odds may now differ.

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