Match Info

Competition: EFL Cup — Second Round

Date: August 26, 2026

Time: 02:00 (GMT+7) / 21:00 (GMT+1)

Venue: Deepdale

Preston North End Preview

Preston North End face a difficult second-round assignment after losing their opening two Championship matches of the season. Paul Heckingbottom's side suffered defeats to Bolton Wanderers and Wolverhampton Wanderers, leaving them still searching for their first victory in 90 minutes this campaign. Their EFL Cup journey began with a penalty-shootout victory over Huddersfield after a 1-1 draw, but defensive concerns remain a major issue. Preston have reached at least the third round in seven of their last 11 EFL Cup campaigns, although their recent record against Everton has been poor, with just one victory in their last six meetings. Jusef Erabi is a doubt, meaning 17-year-old George Gryba could potentially lead the attack. (sportsmole.co.uk)

Everton Preview

Everton travel to Deepdale with confidence after beginning the Premier League season with a 2-0 victory over Crystal Palace. David Moyes' side overcame a shaky opening period before goals from Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall and Thierno Barry secured three points. Everton have now avoided an opening-day defeat for the first time in five seasons and will be hoping to make further progress in a competition they have never won. Moyes is likely to rotate his squad with Premier League fixtures against Bournemouth, Manchester United and Tottenham approaching, giving players such as Brennan Johnson, Tyler Dibling, Beto and Charly Alcaraz an opportunity to impress. (sportsmole.co.uk)

Probable Lineups

Preston North End (4-2-3-1)

Nicholls; Valentin, Storey, Lindsay, Vukcevic; Leroy, McCann; Lang, Devine, Burgzorg; Erabi

Everton (4-2-3-1)

Travers; Patterson, O'Brien, Keane, Mykolenko; Hackney, Armstrong; Dibling, Alcaraz, Johnson; Beto (sportsmole.co.uk)

We Say

Preston's home advantage and the possibility of Everton making several changes should prevent this from being completely one-sided. However, the hosts' defensive problems and difficult start to the Championship campaign are worrying signs, while Everton have the greater depth and enter the match with considerably more confidence.

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