Middlesbrough face Doncaster Rovers in the EFL Cup second round on Tuesday, August 25, 2026, at the Eco-Power Stadium. The Championship side, currently 11th in the table with three points from two games, will be looking for a response after a league defeat to Blackburn Rovers.
Doncaster Rovers, managed by Grant McCann, advanced to this stage via a dramatic 5-4 penalty shootout victory over Stockport County. The League One side pulled off a major shock in this competition last season, beating Middlesbrough 4-0 at the Riverside Stadium. Middlesbrough, under manager Kim Hellberg, secured their own second-round spot with a narrow win over Wrexham. Their league campaign has been mixed, opening with a 2-1 victory over Lincoln City before the recent loss.
Middlesbrough's current league standing shows three points, three goals scored and three conceded. They sit three points behind early leaders Millwall. This cup tie offers a chance to build momentum ahead of their next Championship fixture, an away trip to face Burnley on September 2nd.
Both squads have significant injury concerns ahead of the match. For the hosts, defender James Husband, Matty Pearson, and Tom Nixon are all dealing with issues. Forward Frankie Okoronkwo is ruled out with a hamstring injury. Middlesbrough's attacking options are dented by the absence of Tommy Conway, who is recovering from ankle and hernia surgeries. Defender Ashley Phillips faces a late fitness test to determine his availability. The latest team news is always available on our dedicated injuries page.
According to the original report from Athlon Sports Grant McCann has selected a Doncaster starting eleven of Simkin; Sterry, Byrne, McGrath, Senior; Bailey, Broadbent; Thomas, Hutchinson, Ayinde; Hanlan. Kim Hellberg's reported Middlesbrough lineup is Brynn; Brittain, Jones, Malanda, Borges; Castledine, Morris, McGree, Peart-Harris; Whittaker, Joseph. These selections show both managers taking the cup competition seriously with strong sides.
Live broadcast options for the EFL Cup tie vary by region. In the United Kingdom, the game is live on Sky Sports+ and can be streamed via Sky Go or with a NOW Sports Membership. For viewers in the United States, exclusive live coverage is provided by Paramount+. Canadian fans can stream the match live through DAZN Canada.
This cup match represents an important fixture for Middlesbrough as they look to balance cup progress with their league ambitions. With a goal difference of zero from their opening league games, finding a consistent rhythm is a priority.
