AFC Wimbledon vs Barnet - EFL Trophy

Season-defining implications hang over this EFL Trophy clash at the home ground, where AFC Wimbledon host Barnet on October 6, 2026 knowing the result could shape the run-in for both clubs. Catch up with all the action from Chelsea's pre-season clash with AC Milan.

There is little to choose between AFC Wimbledon and Barnet on paper, and the EFL Trophy encounter should reflect that balance. The hosts will be looking to find their rhythm and put a run of results together. The visitors will back themselves to cause problems and will not make the trip expecting an easy afternoon. What happened is that when the team was being defeated game after game, they put more money on the table to solve the problem." It did not work.

How the two sides approach the contest strategically will be key. AFC Wimbledon will want to control proceedings in front of their own supporters, while Barnet will back themselves to cause problems on the break. But the Greek winger believes the mentality Arsenal are showing in pre-season is a sign they are ready to defend their crown.

The fixture is likely to be shaped by its key performers, with creative midfielders and clinical finishers on both sides capable of turning the game in an instant. The battle in midfield, where both sides look to control tempo, could prove the decisive arena. The Sun claims Arsenal and United scouted the Shakhtar Donetsk forward, who scored a hat-trick against Kudrivka on Monday and is rated at £30million.

With the sides closely matched, the outcome may well hinge on which team takes its chances on the day. Expect a tight, competitive affair that could easily end all square at 1-1. Whatever the outcome, the EFL Trophy fixture promises a meaningful contest with real implications for both clubs. A more central role appears likely given the sale of Youri Tielemans to Manchester United and the anterior cruciate ligament injury suffered by Amadou Onana at the World Cup.