Middlesbrough vs Wrexham Preview & Prediction | 2026-27 EFL Carabao Cup | First Round

Click here for today’s sports betting tips from our expert analysts!

Wrexham have been handed a tough draw in the opening round as they travel to fellow Championship side Middlesbrough, the losers in last season’s play-off final.

Kick-off date/time: 7 August 2026 at 8:00 pm

How to watch on TV: UK – Sky Sports / USA – Paramount+

How to watch online: UK – Sky Go / USA – Paramount+

Middlesbrough vs Wrexham prediction

Wrexham are a notorious strong cup team under Phil Parkinson, who himself is a simply outstanding cup manager. Having previously guided a then League Two side Bradford City to the League Cup final back in 2013, Parkinson consistently leads his teams through deep runs in knockout competitions and the Red Dragons will be hoping to improve on their fourth-round finish last season.

Middlesbrough came so close to the Premier League in 2025-26 and will want to begin the campaign well. They could prove frustrated though by an obdurate Wrexham defence and the threat of a visiting counter attack is clear and obvious. With that in mind, backing Wrexham via the double chance market warrants serious consideration.

Middlesbrough vs Wrexham tip: Double chance - draw/Wrexham