The Carabao Cup returns this week, and the holders Newcastle United will begin their defence of the trophy with a third-round tie against League One side Bradford City at St. James' Park.
Eddie Howe's Magpies have had a stuttering start to their Premier League season, but they will be looking to get their rhythm back in a competition they won last year.
A return to home soil for their cup defence could see them kickstart their season.
Back in Carabao Cup action tomorrow! 🙌 pic.twitter.com/GmPrOyAutq
— Newcastle United (@NUFC) September 23, 2025
However, they will come up against a Bradford outfit that is full of confidence.
Graham Alexander's side has made an excellent start to life in League One, sitting at the top of the table after a recent promotion.
The Bantams have already proven their cup pedigree with victories over two Championship sides in the previous rounds.
With the confidence high in the Bradford camp, Newcastle will know they cannot afford to be complacent.
Either way, it will be a test for both Newcastle and Bradford in their return to cup action, so here’s a look at everything you need to know ahead of the tie.
Newcastle vs Bradford kick-off time and date
Newcastle's EFL Cup clash with Bradford is set to take place on Wednesday, September 24th. Kick-off is scheduled for 7:45pm (BST) at St. James' Park.
Newcastle vs Bradford TV channel
The meeting between Newcastle and Bradford will be available to watch in the UK via Sky Sports+.
A Sky Sports subscription is required to view in the UK.
Newcastle vs Bradford live stream
A live stream will be available to view the Newcastle vs Bradford match, with the Sky Go app hosting the match.
This requires a valid login and a Sky Sports subscription to view.
Who is the referee for Newcastle vs Bradford
The referee for the match is Thomas Kirk.
He will be officiating his first senior game involving Newcastle.
Newcastle injury news and team updates
Newcastle have a few injury concerns heading into their clash with Bradford.
Fabian Schar is a doubt after suffering a head injury, and is unlikely to be risked.
Jacob Ramsey and Yoane Wissa are both ruled out with an ankle and knee injury respectively.
Given the congested fixture list and a need to manage player fitness, Howe is expected to make a number of changes to his starting XI.
Predicted Newcastle XI: Ramsdale; Krafth, Lascelles, Botman, Trippier; Guimarães, Miley, Joelinton; Elanga, Osula, Gordon.
Bradford team news and injury updates
Bradford are expected to field a near full-strength side for this cup tie, as they look to cause an upset.
Aiden Baldwin is a concern after limping off at the weekend.
Graham Alexander will likely stick with his preferred 3-4-3 formation.
Predicted Bradford XI: Walker; Tourey, McIntyre, Pennington; Writght, Power, Leigh, Neufville, Pointon, Swan, Sarcevic.
Newcastle and Bradford head-to-head record
Since the two clubs first faced off in 1895, there have been a number of meetings between Newcastle and Bradford.
The Magpies have a favourable record, but the most recent matches have been a mixed bag.
| Newcastle win | Draw | Bradford win |
| 3 | 1 | 1 |
Newcastle vs Bradford prediction
It’s tough to predict exactly how the match will play out.
Newcastle will likely rotate their squad, which could give Bradford an opportunity.
However, even a rotated Newcastle side is packed with quality, and they will be looking to get back to winning ways in front of their home crowd.
Bradford's impressive recent form and cup performances suggest they could make this a tricky encounter.
Prediction: Newcastle 2-1 Bradford.