Doncaster will try to surprise the favorite again: prediction for Doncaster Rovers vs Middlesbrough
Doncaster
The second round match of the English League Cup between Doncaster Rovers and Middlesbrough will take place on August 25, 2026, at the Eco-Power Stadium in Doncaster. The hosts have already knocked out Stockport on penalties, while Kim Helberg's team narrowly overcame Wrexham.
Doncaster Rovers: cup pedigree gives reason for optimism
Grant McCann's side have reached the second round of the League Cup for the fourth consecutive time, having beaten Stockport in a penalty shootout 5-4 after a 1-1 draw. Their league campaign has started less convincingly: a 1-2 defeat to Mansfield and a goalless draw with Barnsley.
Doncaster fans have particularly fond memories against Middlesbrough. Last season, Doncaster pulled off a sensational 4-0 away thrashing of this opponent and went on to reach the third round of the competition.
Middlesbrough: need a quick response after first defeat
Middlesbrough opened the season with back-to-back victories — 1-0 over Wrexham in the League Cup and 2-1 against Lincoln City in the Championship. However, their first away game ended in a 1-2 loss to Blackburn, despite taking a lead at halftime through a Jeremy Sarmiento goal.
Helberg may rotate his squad and give opportunities to Sol Brynn, Alfie Jones, Neto Borges, Riley McGree, and Kyle Joseph. Even with some changes, the visitors have enough depth to be confident of progressing to the next round.
Match facts and head-to-head stats
- Doncaster advanced past Stockport in the first round only via a penalty shootout.
- Last season, Doncaster thrashed Middlesbrough away 4-0.
- Middlesbrough have lost only one of their last four away games against Doncaster.
Class difference should show: prediction for Doncaster Rovers vs Middlesbrough
Doncaster have already shown they're capable of causing this opponent problems, but their current League One start has been far from convincing. It will be tough for the hosts to contain a higher-quality attacking line for the full 90 minutes.
Middlesbrough may rotate, but their squad depth should be enough to establish a clear advantage. After the setback against Blackburn, the visitors are motivated to get back to winning ways quickly.
