Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the EFL Cup match.
Both sides have a poor recent history in the competition, but one of them is guaranteed to end their barren run and progress. The focus here should be on the goal markets, as Wigan Athletic and Notts County are both capable of delivering an open, high-scoring game.
Wigan Athletic
Their League One campaign began with mixed results — a convincing 3:1 win over Northampton Town was followed by a 2:0 defeat to Leyton Orient. Away form has been a persistent problem throughout the calendar year, but their EFL Cup record is even worse: six first-round exits in the past seven seasons and just three wins in the competition over the last 11 years. At home, however, Wigan Athletic tend to play on the front foot and create plenty of chances.
Notts County
Since returning to League Two in 2023, Notts County have yet to make an impression in other competitions, suffering first-round eliminations from the EFL Cup in both seasons. They’ve taken just one point from their first two league games — a 1:1 draw with Newport County and a 2:1 loss to Salford City — and have managed only one win in competitive fixtures since April. Notts County are unreliable at the back but have shown they can score.
Wigan Athletic vs Notts County Prediction
Neither team has impressed in the EFL Cup, but with defensive frailties on both sides and the incentive to end their poor cup runs, this could turn into an open encounter. Wigan Athletic are adventurous at home, Notts County don’t tend to sit back, and defensive errors are common. An exchange of goals and a high total look likely.
