The Carabao Cup first round delivered dramatic football action, with West Ham, Burnley, and Millwall securing crucial wins. Fans witnessed penalty shootouts, upsets, and standout performances across the competition.
Carabao Cup First Round Highlights
West Ham staged a comeback victory over Portsmouth, winning 3-1 at the London Stadium. Burnley edged Notts County in a tense penalty shootout, while Millwall defeated QPR on penalties. These results set the stage for an exciting second round.
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Key Matches and Results
Several matches went to penalties, including AFC Wimbledon's 5-4 shootout win over Newport and Barnsley's 6-5 victory against Wigan. Bradford, Leicester, and Norwich also advanced with comfortable wins.
| Match | Result | Winner |
|---|---|---|
| West Ham vs Portsmouth | 3-1 | West Ham |
| Burnley vs Notts County | 1-1 (4-3 pens) | Burnley |
| QPR vs Millwall | 1-1 (2-0 pens) | Millwall |
| AFC Wimbledon vs Newport | 1-1 (5-4 pens) | AFC Wimbledon |
| Barnsley vs Wigan | 1-1 (6-5 pens) | Barnsley |
Penalty Shootout Drama
The first round featured multiple penalty shootouts, adding excitement for fans. Burnley's Kyle Walker, a four-time winner of this competition, smashed home the decisive spot-kick against Notts County. Reading also advanced after a 5-4 shootout win over Bromley.
Upsets and Surprises
Lincoln City defeated Derby County 2-1, while Birmingham City won 1-0 at Swansea. These results highlight the unpredictable nature of cup football, where lower-league teams can challenge higher-ranked opponents.

What's Next in the Carabao Cup
The second round will feature the winners from these matches, with Premier League teams entering the competition. Fans can expect more thrilling encounters as clubs battle for a place in the later stages.
Key Takeaways from the First Round
- West Ham's comeback shows their depth and resilience.
- Burnley's penalty experience proved vital.
- Millwall's defensive solidity earned them a shootout win.
- Several lower-league teams pushed higher-tier clubs to the limit.
- Penalty shootouts remain a thrilling part of cup competitions.