The 2026/27 Carabao Cup first round kicked off on Thursday night, with League Two side Walsall securing a 1-0 upset against Championship club Bristol City at Ashton Gate. This year's competition begins a week earlier than usual, a decision made to alleviate fixture congestion.
Why the Early Start?
Typically, the first round of Carabao Cup fixtures takes place in the midweek following the opening round of EFL league games. However, after consulting with clubs across the EFL, it was agreed to start the cup a week earlier to reduce fixture congestion.
This season also saw a preliminary round due to nine English clubs competing in Europe, with Rochdale and Crawley defeating Tranmere and York respectively.
Schedule Changes
The original schedule had the competition starting on Friday, but Bristol City's match with Walsall was moved to Thursday to avoid clashing with the Bristol International Balloon Fiesta. The earlier start also allows players more rest compared to previous seasons.
The remaining 34 first-round matches will take place from Friday to Monday, marking the first time a full round of weekend fixtures has been held this century. The first round includes teams from the Championship, League One, and League Two, with relegated Premier League clubs West Ham, Burnley, and Wolves participating.
What's Next?
Eleven Premier League teams, including Tottenham and Chelsea, will enter in the second round. Current holders Manchester City will begin their defence in round three, alongside other European competitors like Arsenal, Manchester United, and Liverpool.
The second-round draw takes place on Monday, August 10, during the build-up to the Devon derby between Plymouth and Exeter on Sky Sports.
