Having failed to qualify for any European competition last season, Manchester United will have to play in the second round of the League Cup like the other 11 Premier League teams not involved in continental competitions. The Red Devils, still without a win, will visit Grimsby Town, a small club playing in League Two, the fourth tier of English football. As is often the case in the FA Cup, it will undoubtedly be a historic day for Mariners fans, who are ready to host one of the most successful clubs in the country.
In addition to advancing past the first round with a 3-1 win over Shrewsbury, Grimsby has also gotten off to a flying start in its own league. The Bianconeri have three wins and two draws, just one point behind the two teams currently sharing the top spot.
Manchester United, however, will not be in the mood to give anything away: Ruben Amorim’s men, once again overwhelmed by criticism after their defeat to Arsenal (0-1) and draw with Fulham (1-1), need a convincing performance to regain confidence ahead of their next Premier League fixture against Burnley. The Red Devils should therefore win by at least two goals in a match with more than two goals in total.
The match between Everton and Mansfield is also unlikely to hold any surprises: the Toffees, who celebrated their debut in their new stadium with a fine 2-0 win over Brighton, should progress to the next round of the League Cup without any problems against the League Two club, despite the changes David Moyes is likely to make.
Predictions for the other matches
The other two Premier League clubs in action today are Fulham and Brighton. The Cottagers host Bristol City, who play in the Championship and were in the promotion playoffs last year. Not an easy opponent for the Londoners, who are coming off two draws with Brighton and Manchester United: Marco Silva’s rotation could make for an eventful match.
Finally, there are also some pitfalls for the Seagulls, who are called upon to redeem themselves after their collapse in Liverpool against Everton: Fabian Hurzeler’s team has not started well, appearing weakened especially in attack due to numerous transfers (Joao Pedro’s above all). It cannot be ruled out that Brighton could concede at least one goal against Oxford United, although the Yellows are one of two teams still without points in the Championship (bottom with Sheffield United).
League Cup: possible winners
Everton (in Everton-Mansfield)
Fulham (in Fulham-Bristol City)
Matches with at least three goals in total
Grimsby Town-Manchester United
Fulham-Bristol City
League Cup: the match with at least one goal per team
Oxford United-Brighton
Odds comparison
Fulham’s victory is quoted at 1.42 on Goldbet and Lottomatica and at 1.43 on Snai. The “Over 2.5” sign in Grimsby Town-Manchester United is quoted at 1.43 on Goldbet and Lottomatica and at 1.40 on Snai.
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