Bradford City vs Rochdale Preview & Prediction | 2026-27 EFL Carabao Cup | First Round
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Fresh off promotion back into the EFL, Rochdale make the short journey across the Pennines to play Bradford City.
Kick-off date/time:
How to watch on TV: UK – Sky Sports+ / USA – Not televised
How to watch online: UK – Sky Go / USA – Cannot be streamed
Bradford City vs Rochdale prediction
Fireworks could be on the menu between these two sides with their close proximity and Rochdale being expected to come out of the traps fast and start with a bang as life back in the EFL begins. Their National League promotion battle with York City was enthralling, but heart-breaking from their perspective but bouncing back and getting the job done via the playoffs will have only made them stronger.
However, the Rochdale players have had to adapt to life under a head coach after Jimmy McNulty left for Stockport County. Ian Watson was drafted in from South Shields of the National League North as his replacement and whilst he is expected to be a success, there may be a teething period on the pitch as he implements his ideas on the squad in a competitive match environment. That plays in Bradford’s favour and as the home team playing at a higher level, the Bantams should be backed to beat Rochdale.
Bradford City vs Rochdale tip: Bradford City to win
