The Carabao Cup first round delivered dramatic football action, with West Ham, Burnley, and Millwall all securing wins. Fans saw thrilling penalty shootouts and surprise upsets across the competition, making it a memorable night for English football.
Carabao Cup First Round: Key Results and Highlights
The first round of the Carabao Cup featured 35 matches, with several Premier League and Championship clubs entering the fray. West Ham came from behind to beat Portsmouth 3-1 at the London Stadium, while Burnley edged Notts County 4-3 on penalties after a 1-1 draw. Millwall also advanced, beating QPR 2-0 on penalties after a 1-1 stalemate.
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West Ham's Comeback Victory
West Ham showed resilience after falling behind early to Portsmouth. Goals from their attacking lineup turned the match around, securing a comfortable 3-1 win. This victory sets a positive tone for their campaign in the competition.
Burnley and Millwall Advance via Shootouts
Burnley and Millwall both needed penalty shootouts to progress. Burnley's goalkeeper made crucial saves, while Millwall converted all their spot-kicks. These dramatic finishes highlighted the unpredictable nature of cup football.
Penalty Shootout Results and Upsets
Several ties were decided from the penalty spot, with Barnsley, Reading, Preston, Doncaster, and Shrewsbury all advancing. Notable upsets included Lincoln City beating Derby County 2-1 and Birmingham City defeating Swansea City 1-0. Lower-league sides like Bradford and Crewe also impressed.

| Team | Result | Progress |
|---|---|---|
| West Ham | 3-1 vs Portsmouth | Advanced |
| Burnley | 1-1 (4-3 pens) vs Notts County | Advanced |
| Millwall | 1-1 (2-0 pens) vs QPR | Advanced |
| Derby | 1-2 vs Lincoln | Eliminated |
Key Takeaways from the First Round
- West Ham's comeback shows their depth and cup ambition.
- Penalty shootouts decided 8 of the 35 ties, adding drama.
- Several lower-league teams caused upsets, proving the magic of the cup.
- Burnley and Millwall showed mental strength in high-pressure situations.
What's Next in the Carabao Cup?
The second round draw will feature the winners, with Premier League teams not in European competition entering. Fans can expect more exciting matchups as the competition progresses toward Wembley.