Stockport County vs Everton U21 - EFL Trophy

There is a notable edge to this EFL Trophy fixture. When Stockport County meet Everton U21 at the home ground on August 18, 2026, both will sense an opportunity to land a telling blow. United could come up against Garnacho once again this forthcoming season, with United scheduled to face Villa on November 7 at Old Trafford, before the return visit to Villa Park on January 16.

Stockport County head into the contest positioned 3rd in the EFL Trophy standings, while Everton U21 arrive sitting 23rd. Stockport County will be keen to seize the initiative and build some momentum on home soil. The visitors will back themselves to cause problems and will not make the trip expecting an easy afternoon. Meanwhile, Paige Bueckers struggled to find her rhythm, going 5-for-13 for 15 points in the loss.

Set-piece efficiency and transition play often decide fixtures of this nature, and both managers will have been drilling those phases on the training ground. City also want to continue improving their attack, with a top left-winger still in the offing too.

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. Their plans to target a new midfielder are not a sign that long-term Manchester United target Carlos Baleba is off anywhere.

Without the market to lean on, the contest feels genuinely open — and the outcome may come down to which side handles the occasion better. On balance, Stockport County look well-placed to claim all three points, and a 2-1 home win would not come as a surprise. Whatever the outcome, the EFL Trophy fixture promises a meaningful contest with real implications for both clubs. Harry Kane is the favourite to win the Ballon d’Or.