The EFL Cup presents an intriguing encounter as Leeds United host Middlesbrough at Elland Road.
Daniel Farke’s side will aim to maintain the ongoing momentum and improve their 12th position on the table as they played out a 3-3 draw against Portsmouth in their Championship opener last weekend.
On the other hand, Michael Carrick’s side, who are eighth in the Championship, have picked up where they left off last season, with a convincing opening-day 1-0 victory against Swansea.
The former Manchester United midfielder has transformed Boro into a reckoning force, and their impressive form has earned widespread praise.
A tough test awaits them against Leeds United, but Carrick’s men will be eager to prove their might in the upcoming match.
The Sporting News looks at the key details ahead of this game, including how to watch the match, kickoff times and the latest lineup news.
MORE: How to watch EFL Championship in UK: Live streams, TV channels, start times, latest fixture schedule
Leeds United vs. Middlesbrough live stream, TV channel in US
Here’s how to watch this EFL Cup match in UK:
- TV channel: Sky Sports Main Event, Sky Sports Football, Sky Ultra HD
- Live stream: Sky Go, NOW, Sky Sports+
This game is available for live TV broadcast on Sky Sports Main Event, Sky Sports Football and Sky Sports Ultra HD. Streaming option is available on Sky Sports+, which will feature more than 1,000 EFL games throughout the season and is included as part of Sky Sports packages.
Sky Sports subscribers can live stream the game via the Sky Go app on various devices including most smartphones and tablets as part of their subscription. You can also access the match via NOW with a day membership (£14.99) or month membership (£34.99).
What time does Leeds United vs. Middlesbrough kick off in US?
| Date | Wednesday, August 14 |
| Kick-off time | 8:00 p.m. BST |
| Venue | Elland Road Stadium |
| Location | Leeds, West Yorkshire |
This EFL Cup clash takes place at the Elland Road stadium in Leeds, West Yorkshire, and kicks off on Wednesday, August 14 at 8:00 p.m. local time (BST).
Leeds United vs. Middlesbrough lineups, team news
Daniel Farke is expected to make significant changes to his starting XI for the EFL Cup encounter against Middlesbrough.
Central defenders Ethan Ampadu and Joe Rodon are prime candidates for rotation, offering opportunities for squad players to stake their claim. In the forward line, Mateo Joseph, who impressed on his full league debut, could be replaced by either Joel Piroe or Patrick Bamford.
Meanwhile, loanee Joe Rothwell is poised to make his first start for the club, while young talents such as Charlie Crew and Joe Gelhardt will be hoping to feature.
Leeds United predicted XI (4-5-1, right to left): Darlow (GK) — Bogle, Wober, Struijk, Byram — Rothwell, Crew, James, Aaronson, Piroe — Bamford
Injured: N/A
Suspended: N/A
A familiar face could be lining up against Leeds United when Middlesbrough visit Elland Road. Former Whites right-back Luke Ayling could be handed a start by manager Michael Carrick. The experienced defender will be keen to impress against his old club.
Another player to watch is Dutch forward Delano Burgzorg. The former Huddersfield Town loanee could make his full competitive debut for Boro.
Middlesbrough predicted XI (4-5-1, right to left): Glover (GK) — Ayling, Clarke, Van den Berg, Engel — Howson, Barlaser, Burgzorg, Morris, Azaz — Coburn
Injured: Lenihan (ankle), McGree (unknown)
Suspended: N/A
Leeds United vs. Middlesbrough prediction
- Prediction: Leeds United 3-1 Middlesbrough
Despite expected rotations to their starting XI, Leeds United are widely tipped to progress in the EFL Cup at the expense of Middlesbrough. The Whites’ deeper squad and recent attacking form give them a clear advantage heading into the contest.
While Middlesbrough have shown promise this season, their squad depth may be tested against a Leeds side capable of fielding a strong team even with key players rested.