Doncaster Rovers host Middlesbrough in the EFL Cup second round at the Eco-Power Stadium on Tuesday, 25 August 2026. The League One side will look to replicate their 4-0 away win against the Championship club from last season's competition.
Doncaster Rovers currently sit 20th in League One with just one point from their opening two games, having scored once and conceded twice.
Grant McCann, the Doncaster Rovers manager, is expected to name a side featuring Simkin in goal. The reported defensive line includes Sterry, Byrne, McGrath and Senior. Bailey and Broadbent are set to anchor the midfield, with Thomas, Hutchinson and Ayinde supporting striker Hanlan.
Kim Hellberg's Middlesbrough are likely to start Brynn between the posts. Brittain, Jones, Malanda and Borges could form the back four. The midfield may see Castledine, Morris, McGree and Peart-Harris, with Whittaker and Joseph leading the attack.
Injuries will affect both squads. Doncaster Rovers are without defenders James Husband, Matty Pearson and Tom Nixon. Forward Frankie Okoronkwo is also sidelined with a hamstring problem, a situation detailed on our injuries page.
For Middlesbrough, striker Tommy Conway is ruled out following ankle and hernia surgeries. Defender Ashley Phillips faces a late fitness test to determine his availability for the match.
Doncaster Rovers advanced to the second round after a dramatic penalty shootout victory over Stockport County. They won the shootout 5-4 following a 1-1 draw. Their league form has been difficult, with a draw and a loss from their first two matches.
Middlesbrough opened their Championship campaign with a 2-1 win over Lincoln City but then suffered a defeat to Blackburn Rovers. The cup offers a distraction from league concerns for both clubs.
Broadcast details are confirmed for several regions. In the United Kingdom, the game will be shown live on television+. Supporters can also stream the match through the Sky Go app or with a NOW Sports Membership.
Exclusive live coverage of the EFL Cup in the United States is available on Paramount+. Canadian viewers can stream the action live through DAZN Canada on the web or on supported smart devices. The match kicks off at 1:00 PM EDT.
The cup tie provides a welcome break from League One struggles for Doncaster Rovers. A positive result could build momentum before their important league match against Stevenage later in the week.
