Blackpool vs Stevenage Predictions, Lineups and Betting Tips

Match Details: August 2nd, 2025 | Bloomfield Road, Blackpool, Sky Bet League One

EFL Football makes its long awaited return this weekend, as the first competitive kick of a ball launches the start of the 2025/26. After Luton Town face Wimbledon in League One’s season opener on Friday, 20 sides will break their duck the very next day, including Blackpool, who play hosts to Stevenage.

Both sides ended last season thoroughly mid-table, their campaigns virtually over with nothing to play for by April. This season, both will want to be involved at the sharp end of the table come the end of the season, and while Stevenage are focused on slow and steady progress, Blackpool could well take a few strides up the standings after last season's ninth placed finish.

Key Betting Tip: Blackpool to Win at odds of 1.89 on Highbet represent excellent value for the tip provided by our in-house tipsters.

Blackpool vs Stevenage Predicted Lineups

Blackpool Predicted XI (4-4-2): Franco Ravizzoli (GK); James Husband, Fraser Horsfall, Oliver Casey, Daniel Imray; Zac Ashworth, Lee Evans, Albie Morgan, George Honeyman; Niall Ennis, Ashley Fletcher.

Largely the same squad as last year, albeit with a few loan deals to boost squad depth, Blackpool showed last season that their current crop of players have more than enough quality to challenge for promotion. Though they fell short last season, this was down to an inconsistent run at the end of the season, which saw them drop out of contention late on.

With no games yet played this season, their squad is unmarked by injuries or suspension, meaning that coach Steve Bruce has a full complement of players to choose from.

Stevenage Predicted XI (5-3-2): Filip Marschall (GK); Dan Butler, Carl Piergianni, Dan Sweeney, Charlie Goode, Luther Wildin; Jordan Houghton, Dan Kemp, Louis Thompson; Chem Campbell, Jamie Reid.

Stevenage’s squad has undergone a larger turnover than their opponents over the summer, with a host of loan deals and permanent signings made as the club looks to put further distance between themselves and the relegation zone, including the loans of talented Aston Villa and Wolves duo Filip Marschall and Chem Campbell.

With no games yet played this season, their squad is unmarked by injuries or suspension, meaning that coach Alex Revell has a full complement of players to choose from.

Blackpool vs Stevenage Current League Standings

With the league season starting this coming Saturday, no games have yet been played, with competing sides busy preparing through pre-season friendlies. As a result, no sides have earned any points yet, leaving them all tied on zero points.

Blackpool vs Stevenage Head to Head Timeline

Despite being in the same division for the past two seasons, the clubs have only faced each other six times since 2010, with Blackpool holding much the better record of this time.

Recent Head to Head Meetings:

• 18/04/2025: Stevenage 1-3 Blackpool.
• 21/12/2024: Blackpool 0-0 Stevenage.
• 03/02/2024: Stevenage 1-0 Blackpool.
• 14/10/2023: Blackpool 3-0 Stevenage.
• 14/03/2017: Blackpool 1-0 Stevenage.

While the last three meetings have been shared evenly (1W 1L 1D), Blackpool have won for of the six clashes between the two since 2010, underlining their dominance in recent years.

However, in recent seasons, Stevenage have started to even the playing field - their last victory came in February 2024, when Jake Foster-Caskey’s finish five minutes from time was enough to secure their first victory over the seasiders in a long time.

Blackpool vs Stevenage Recent Match Analysis

**Blackpool Last Five Games: **

• Blackpool 2-1 West Brom (Club Friendly)
• Blackpool 4-1 Bristol Rovers (League One)
• Blackpool 0-2 Birmingham City (League One)
• Wigan Athletic 1-1 Blackpool (League One)
• Blackpool 1-2 Wrexham (League One)

Though they fell out of contention for promotion in the final weeks of the season, a tricky run of games certainly didn’t help Blackpool’s cause - they lost to promoted sides Birmingham and Wrexham, and fell to a disappointing draw at Wigan. Dropping seven points in their last five games killed any faint hopes they had left, but with a win over Championship side West Brom in their only pre-season friendly, confidence will be high as they look to make a fast start.

Stevenage Last Five Games:

• Stevenage 2-3 Swansea City (Club Friendly)
• Bolton Wanderers 1-1 Stevenage (League One)
• Stevenage 1-1 Rotherham United (League One)
• Stevenage 0-1 Birmingham City (League One)
• Bristol Rovers 0-1 Stevenage (League One)

At the turn of the year, Stevenage sat right alongside Blackpool in the fight for promotion - both occupied spots in the top half and were just a couple of wins outside the top six. However, following a win over Exeter on February 1st, they would manage just four more victories until the end of the season, in a run of 20 games across all competitions.

This collapse saw them drop into the bottom half, ending the campaign just eleven points clear of the drop zone on 57 points - Stevenage fans will hope their side have addressed their frailties during pre-season, otherwise they could be in for a rough start to the season.

Blackpool vs Stevenage Prediction

Our advanced algorithm has analyzed over 200 data points to predict that Blackpool will get their season off to a winning start. Going up against an out-of-form Stevenage, they are clear favourites, and a clean sheet is also on the cards, as we predict a 2-0 Blackpool win. The model factors in current form, head to head records, player availability and tactical matchups.

Blackpool vs Stevenage Betting Tip

Football Park’s Best Bet: Blackpool to Win - placing higher than Stevenage last season, and showing far more promise at the end of last campaign as well as in pre-season, Blackpool are the clear favourites here, and while upsets are common in League One, I don't see one happening here.

Key Players: Blackpool vs Stevenage

Albie Morgan (Blackpool): Dictating proceedings from the heart of midfield, Albie Morgan had a coming of age season in League One last season. Though he had notched five seasons of third tier football previously, five goals and nine assists from midfield last season saw him shortlisted for Blackpool’s player of the season. While he didn’t win it, the nomination underlined his importance to the side, and aged 25, he has plenty of time to improve further.

Carl Piergianni (Stevenage): Two time player of the season for the club, Piergianni has been virtually ever-present at the heart of Stevenage’s defence - he has played 154 games for the club in just three seasons, and has shown himself to be a danger in the opposing box as well as his own, netting 15 times since his move from Oldham in 2022.

Stadium Details: Home of Blackpool FC, Bloomfield Road has stood since 1899, making it one of the oldest grounds in the EFL. At full capacity, the ground can hold 16 ‘500 people, and after renovations throughout the 2010’s on various parts of the ground, the stadium now boasts modern, up to date facilities.

Barnet vs Fleetwood Predictions, Lineups & Betting Tips

Match Details: Saturday 2 August 2025 | The Hive Stadium, Barnet | EFL League Two – Round 1 | 15:00  

Newly promoted Barnet return to League Two at home to Fleetwood Town, aiming to carry the momentum from their National League championship into a strong start. Fleetwood, relegated last season and under new manager Pete Wild, arrive looking to bounce back immediately.

Key Betting Tip - Barnet to Win - Fresh off a dominant National League campaign, Barnet look poised to upset the established Fleetwood.

Barnet vs Fleetwood Predicted Lineups

(Subject to confirmation - 60 mins before kick-off)

Barnet (probable 4‑2‑3‑1): Crellin; Potter, Browne, Virtue‑Thick, Devonport; Patterson, Hunt; Helm; Moore, Tavares; Stead

Fleetwood Town (possible 4‑3‑3): Kelly; Clark, Dack, Medley, Neal; O’Brien‑Wiredu, Collinge, Mayor; Devonport, Virtue‑Thick, Bennett

Barnet vs Fleetwood Current League Standings

With this being the first game of the season, neither side have a set place in the table.

Barnet vs Fleetwood Head-to-Head Timeline

• 10 Nov 2019 (FA Cup) – Barnet 0‑2 Fleetwood Town
• 19 Mar 2013 (League Two) – Barnet 2‑0 Fleetwood Town
• 29 Sep 2012 (League Two) – Fleetwood Town 2‑1 Barnet

These two sides have only met three times, with two of those matches well over 10 years ago.

Barnet vs Fleetwood Matches Analysis

Barnet Last 5 Matches:

• Barnet 3‑0 AFC Fylde (Win)
• Barnet 4‑0 Aldershot Town (Win)
• Sutton United 1‑3 Barnet (Win)
• Barnet 1‑1 Eastleigh (Draw)
• Barnet 1‑1 Wealdstone (Draw)

Fleetwood Last 5 Matches:

• Bradford 1–0 Fleetwood (Loss)
• Fleetwood 2–0 Newport (Win)
• Harrogate 3–1 Fleetwood (Loss)
• Fleetwood 0–0 Barrow (Draw)
• Chesterfield 3–0 Fleetwood (Loss)

Barnet vs Fleetwood Betting Tips

Football Park’s Best Bet: Barnet To Win @1.91 on Highbet

Key Players to Watch: Barnet vs Fleetwood

Barnet:

Joe Hugill (Forward): The Manchester United loanee impressed with intelligent movement and creativity upfront. A goal threat early on, especially with support from Kanu and Brunt.

Idris Kanu (Winger): Vital in driving forward play and creating chances. His involvement in goals and assists makes him central to Barnet’s attacking strategy.

Fleetwood Town:

Ronan Coughlan (Forward): Joint top scorer for Fleetwood last season with eight league goals. Brings experience and pace up front.

Danny Mayor (Midfielder): Creative playmaker likely to unlock Barnet’s defence with key passes and set-piece deliveries from a deep midfield position.

Barnet vs Fleetwood Match Facts

Referee: Aaron Bannister, known for average of 4 bookings per League Two match.

Broadcast: Likely via EFL streaming platforms; domestic UK coverage through Sky Sports+.

Stadium: Hive Stadium

Bradford City vs Wycombe Predictions, Lineups and Betting Tips

Match Details: August 2nd, 2025 | University of Bradford Stadium (Valley Parade), Bradford | Sky Bet League One

EFL Football makes its long awaited return this weekend, as the first competitive kick of a ball launches the start of the 2025/26. After Luton Town face Wimbledon in League One’s season opener on Friday, 20 sides will break their duck the very next day, including Bradford City, who will host Wycombe Wanderers.

Sealing the final automatic promotion spot in League Two by one point on the final day of last season, Bradford face a tough test to start their season, as they face a Wycombe side who narrowly lost in the League One play-off semi-final - they will be out to avenge that result here on their competitive return.

Key Betting Tip: Bradford City to Win at Odds of 2.32 on Highbet represent excellent value for the tip provided by our in-house tipsters.

Bradford City vs Wycombe Wanderers Predicted Lineups

Bradford City Predicted XI (3-4-2-1): Sam Walker (GK); Joe Wright, Aden Baldwin, Ciaran Kelly; Ibou Touray, Clarke Oduor, Jenson Metcalfe, Josh Neufville; Antoni Sarcevic, Calum Kavanagh; Andy Cook.

Thanks to their surprise promotion, Bradford’s squad needed something of a facelift, and the board have duly obliged - bring in Joe Wright of Kilmarnock, Ibou Touray of Stockport, Wimbledon’s Josh Neufville and Barnsley’s Stephen Humphrey’s, coach Graham Alexander has been wise to bring in talent from a league equal to or above League One, providing him with some high level competitive experience.

With no games yet played this season, their squad is unmarked by injuries or suspension, meaning that Alexander has a full complement of players to choose from.

Wycombe Wanderers Predicted XI (4-2-3-1): Mikki van Sas (GK); Daniel Harvie, Alex Hartridge, Dan Casey, Jack Grimmer; Caolan Boyd-Munce, Josh Scowen; James Tilley, Luke Leahy, Ewan Henderson; Richard Kone.

Similar to Bradford, Wycombe have strengthened their lineup this summer in a bid to ensure they don’t fall short of promotion for the second season running. Adding to the likes of the lethal Richard Kone, experienced and menacing Luke Leahy, and marauding left back Daniel Harvie, Mike Dodds has created a squad stacked with talent, who will have their eyes set firmly on the top two.

With no games yet played this season, their squad is unmarked by injuries or suspension, meaning that Dodds has a full complement of players to choose from.

Bradford City vs Wycombe Wanderers Current League Standings

With the league season starting this coming Saturday, no games have yet been played, with competing sides busy preparing through pre-season friendlies. As a result, no sides have earned any points yet, leaving them all tied on zero points.

Bradford City vs Wycombe Wanderers Head to Head Timeline

In the last 15 years, the two clubs have faced off against each other on just eight occasions, rarely finding themselves in the same division. However, with that being said, their head to head record is close, with Wycombe winning one more game (4) than Bradford City (3), with one draw taking place between them.

Recent Head to Head Meetings:

• 21/02/2024: Bradford City 0-1 Wycombe Wanderers.
• 04/11/2023: Bradford City 1-2 Wycombe Wanderers.
• 02/02/2019: Wycombe Wanderers 0-0 Bradford City.
• 25/08/2018: Bradford City 1-2 Wycombe Wanderers.
• 19/03/2013: Bradford City 1-0 Wycombe Wanderers.

Wycombe have dominated proceedings in recent years, winning three of the last four meetings between them, which included an EFL Trophy semi-final clash and an FA Cup round 1 fixture.

To find Bradford’s last win in this fixture, we must go all the way back to March 2013 - on that occasion, it was a goal from Garry Thompson which would prove pivotal in the Bantam’s 1-0 victory. Thompson would also later go on to play for Wycombe from 2015 to 2017.

Bradford City vs Wycombe Wanderers Recent Match Analysis

Bradford City Last Five Games:

• Bradford City 2-0 Middlesbrough (Club Friendly).
• Bradford City 1-0 Fleetwood Town (League Two)
• Doncaster Rovers 2-1 Bradford City (League Two)
• Chesterfield 3-3 Bradford City (League Two)
• Bradford City 1-1 Notts County (League Two)

Despite a week end to last season which saw them win two of their last eight fixtures, Bradford still managed to claim promotion, beating Walsall to the post by just one point, courtesy of their final day win over Fleetwood. Now, with a summer of recruitment and vision planning, Bradford appear ready for third division football for the first time since 2019.

Beating Championship side Middlesbrough in late July, as Antoni Sarcevic and Will Swan found the net, Bradford showed why they should not be underestimated this season. Certainly right now, they don’t have the quality to taste promotion again. However, they have more than enough quality to make life difficult for those that do.

Wycombe Wanderers Last Five Games:

• Tottenham Hotspur 2-2 Wycombe Wanderers (Club Friendly)
• Charlton Athletic 1-0 Wycombe Wanderers (Play-Off Semi-Final Second Leg)
• Wycombe Wanderers 0-0 Charlton Athletic (Play-Off Semi-Final First Leg)
• Wycombe Wanderers 1-3 Stockport County (League One)
• Leyton Orient 1-0 Wycombe Wanderers (League One)

Despite their excellent overall campaign, and their highest points total since 2018, Wycombe are in fact an out-of-form team, failing to win since April, and losing four of their last five competitive games.

Understandably, their intensity dropped off at the end of last season when they realised a play-off place was guaranteed, but once the play-offs began, they never recaptured that drive and ambition, and it was this that saw them knocked out by Charlton with nine minutes left of the second leg. Hopefully, the start of a new season motivates Wycombe’s squad to recapture their form from the first 90% of last season.

Bradford City vs Wycombe Wanderers Prediction

Our advanced algorithm has analyzed over 200 data points to predict that Bradford City will open their account with a win - it will be a close fought game, and Wycombe will show why they were close to promotion last year throughout, but Bradford will buil on their pre-season momentum to take a 2-1 win. The model factors in current form, head to head records, player availability and tactical matchups.

Bradford City vs Wycombe Wanderers Betting Tip

Football Park’s Best Bet: Bradford City to Win - despite Wycombe's obvious superiority last season, Bradford have a host of talented players for this level, and while this could be considered something od an upset, they are in fact two closely matched sides. Bradford's home advantage will be the deciding factor.

Key Players: Bradford City vs Wycombe Wanderers

Antoni Sarcevic (Bradford City): Something of a lower league journeyman, Sarcevic has accumulated six years of League One experience across his career at four different clubs - these travels will bring valuable knowledge to the Bradford City squad, as he knows exactly what is required to grind out results and accumulate points. Not to mention he has accumulated 90 goals across his career, and ran the show out of midfield for Bradford last season.

Richard Kone (Wycombe Wanderers): While Wycombe have brought in some strong reinforcements, Richard Kone is still the standout player in their starting eleven. Netting 21 goals across all competitions last season, (having scored four the season prior), Kone took a huge step in his development, and has now become one of the most feared strikers in League One. Aged just 22, Kone’s form could explode this year if the right steps are taken in his development.

Stadium Details: The University of Bradford Stadium, also known as Valley Parade, is one of the largest stadiums in League One, capable of holding a capacity of over 24 ‘000 people - built in 1911, it is a ground with much history, and although some of the facilities could be considered out of date, it is a true English football away day.

Shrewsbury Town vs Bromley Predictions, Lineups & Betting Tips

Match Details: August 2, 2025 | New Meadow | EFL League Two | 15:00 BST

As we approach August, we see the return of English football! This weekend is the commencement of the EFL League’s One and Two for the 2025/26 campaign. Shrewsbury play host to Bromley in matchday 1, with the hosts looking to bounce straight back up into the third tier this year. Meanwhile, Bromley will be searching for an improvement upon last season’s finish of 11th.

Key Betting Tip: Bromley to Win at 2.68 odds represents excellent value based on the tip provided by our team of in-house tipsters.

Shrewsbury vs Bromley Predicted Lineups

Shrewsbury Predicted XI: Savin; Nurse, Anderson, Nsiala; Boyle, Biggins, Stubbs, Hoole; Gillead; Stewart, Marquis.

Bromley Predicted XI: Long; Cameron, Elerewe, Jenkinson; Charles; Kabamba, Ilunga, Thompson, Pinnock; Dinanga, Cheek.

It is a good for the Shrews to have held on to John Marquis over the summer, and he looks likely to lead the line on Saturday.

Bromley will not be too pleased about their end to pre-season, but are looking to get off to a good start.

Shrewsbury vs Bromley Current League Standings

The Shrews suffered a horrific end to their League One journey, after winning just one of their remaining 17 matches, which saw them end on a sorry 33 points and in last place. A performance of eight wins, nine draws, and 29 defeats which they will want to put behind them as soon as possible. Michael Appleton’s side have rebuilt after being hit hard following their relegation, eight players have been released as they look to reset and go again from Saturday.

As for The Ravens, they enjoyed a successful inaugural season in the EFL. For some of the season, they looked like they had an outside chance of making the playoffs but fell short four points. A 66-point tally was accumulated by 17 wins, 15 draws, and 14 defeats. They may still be considered “newbies,” but they will certainly be a tough to team to crack this season.

Shrewsbury vs Bromley Head-to-Head Timeline

Having always been at a higher level than their visitors, The Shrews have never taken to the field against the London outfit.

Recent Shrewsbury and Bromley Matches Analysis

Shrewsbury Last 5 Matches:

• Shrewsbury 2-2 Burnley (H) – Club Friendly
• Shrewsbury 2-5 Bolton (H) – Club Friendly
• Shrewsbury 3-0 Kidderminster (H) – Club Friendly
• Shrewsbury 2-1 Telford (A) – Club Friendly
• Shrewsbury 2-0 Leamington (A) – Club Friendly

It was a successful pre-season for the Town, winning four of their six (they beat Stoke 1-0 prior to the Leamington fixture) and losing just one. The only matches they lost or drew, however, were to sides in League One or above. They scored for fun this summer, finding the net 12 times, while conceding eight goals.

Bromley Last 5 Matches:

• Bromley 1-2 Millwall (H) – Club Friendly
• Bromley 2-2 Crystal Palace U21 (H) – Club Friendly
• Bromley 2-1 Chelsea U21 (H) – Club Friendly
• Bromley 2-2 Cray (A) – Club Friendly
• Bromley 4-3 Lincoln (H) – Club Friendly

Bromley also enjoyed a thrilling pre-season. Losing just once, to Millwall, and even beating League One side Lincoln City. They scored 11 goals in this time, conceding 10.

Shrewsbury vs Bromley Predictions

Our advanced algorithm analyses over 200 data points to generate these predictions with confidence in a Bromley victory. The model factors in current form, head-to-head records, player availability, and tactical matchups.

Best Shrewsbury vs Bromley Betting Tips

Football Park’s Best Bet: Bromley to Win @ 2.68 - Our team of in-house betting tipsters have predicted a Bromley in this fixture. Recent head-to-head and form suggest confidence in a Bromley victory.

Key Players to Watch: Shrewsbury vs Bromley

John Marquis (Shrewsbury): The forward will look to get off to a good start up front, with Marquis expected to increase on his goal tally from last season, as they look to adjust well to the drop.

Michael Cheek (Bromley): The last thing Shrewsbury will want to deal with on their first game back in League Two is Cheek – who scored 25 goals last campaign and absolutely loves scoring goals at this level.

Shrewsbury vs Bromley Match Facts

Broadcast Details:

UK: Sky Sports+ at 15:00 BST.

Stadium Information: New Meadow is located in the West Midlands, in Shropshire County, and can hold up to 9,875 fans.

Walsall vs Swindon Predictions, Lineups & Betting Tips

Match Details: Saturday 2 August 2025 | The Banks's Stadium, Walsall | EFL League Two – Round 1 | 15:00

League Two action returns with Walsall hosting Swindon Town at the Banks's Stadium. Walsall, still smarting from play-off disappointment last season, have had a summer of rebuilding under Mat Sadler. Swindon, meanwhile, arrive with fresh ambition and momentum. Expect a competitive opener where both teams want to stamp early authority.

Key Betting Tip: Coming soon

Walsall vs Swindon Predicted Lineups

(Subject to confirmation - 60 mins before kick-off)

Walsall (likely 4‑3‑3 / 4‑2‑3‑1): Tommy Simkin (GK); David Okagbue, Harry Williams, Taylor Allen, Nathan Asiimwe; Alfie Chang, Ryan Stirk, Liam Gordon; Jamie Jellis, George Hall, Jamille Matt

Swindon (likely 4-2-3-1): Ward; Mahoney, Minturn, Brennan, Blake-Tracy; Khan, Cain; Young, Glatzel, Shade; Austin

Walsall vs Swindon Current League Standings

Walsall aim to kick off their seventh consecutive League Two campaign, aiming to bounce back quickly after finishing 4th last season but losing the play-off final.

Swindon Town are tipped as playoff contenders in the new campaign, with expectations boosted by a stable managerial setup and attacking squad additions.

Walsall vs Swindon Head-to-Head Timeline

• Walsall 1–0 Swindon (Mar 2025)
• Swindon 4–0 Walsall (Aug 2024)
• Walsall 1–2 Swindon (Apr 2024)
• Walsall 3–1 Swindon (Apr 2024)
• Swindon 1–2 Walsall (Dec 2022)

Across the last 25 meetings, Swindon have 10 wins, Walsall 7, and 8 draws. Goals have flowed regularly, with an average of 2.7 per match suggesting neither side fears a shootout.

Walsall vs Swindon Matches Analysis

Walsall Last 5 Matches:

• Walsall 2–3 Derby County (friendly)
• Walsall 1–0 Aston Villa (friendly)
• AFC Wimbledon 1–0 Walsall (play‑off final)
• Walsall 2–1 Chesterfield (semi-final playoff leg)
• Chesterfield 0–2 Walsall (play‑off semi-final)

Swindon Last 5 Matches:

• Swindon Town 0–0 Milton Keynes Dons
• Gillingham 1–1 Swindon Town
• Swindon Town 0–1 Bromley
• Grimsby Town 0–4 Swindon Town
• Swindon Town 5–4 Bradford City

Walsall and Swindon Predictions and Stats

✅ Prediction: Both Teams to Score (BTTS) – Walsall and Swindon both scored in 4 of their last 5 meetings.

✅ Prediction: Draw or Swindon Win (Double Chance) – Swindon are unbeaten in their last 4 pre-season games and have attacking momentum.

✅ Prediction: Over 2.5 Goals – 8 of the last 10 head-to-head matches between the sides saw 3+ goals.

Walsall vs Swindon Betting Tips

Football Park’s Best Bet: Coming Soon

Key Players to Watch: Walsall vs Swindon

Jamille Matt (Striker): A proven EFL striker with experience and presence, Matt is Walsall’s focal point in attack. His ability to hold up play, bully defenders and finish chances makes him their go-to man in tight matches.

Ryan Stirk (Midfielder): Walsall’s midfield engine. Composed on the ball, positionally smart, and a strong passer, Stirk is vital to how Walsall transition from defence to attack and maintain control in midfield.

Paul Glatzel (Forward): In strong form this pre-season, the Liverpool loanee looks sharp and clinical. He brings a cutting edge Swindon lacked at times last season and will likely be their main goal threat on Saturday.

Jake Young (Attacking Midfielder/Winger): Creative, skilful and direct, Young can unlock defences with a dribble or clever pass. He’s the kind of player who can make something out of nothing - expect him to be heavily involved in Swindon’s best attacking moves.

Walsall vs Swindon Match Facts

Referee: Likely to be one of the experienced EFL officials, averaging around 4 yellow cards per match this season.

Broadcast: Likely available via EFL streaming platforms; UK and international coverage via Sky Sports+.

Stadium: The Banks’s Stadium holds 11,300.

Chesterfield vs Walsall Preview

With all said and done in regular league action across the EFl, many stories in the 24/25 season have closed their books for the last time, with this chapter encapsulating the fourth tier, League Two.

Doncaster have been crowned champions, and they will be joined in League One by Port Vale and Bradford City, with a jaw-droppingly dramatic late winner on the final day sending the latter up, at the potentially temporary expense of the visiting side in this piece, whilst Carlisle United and Morecambe have been subjected to National League competition next season.

There is still one remaining story to tell in League Two this season, however, and it traditionally carries the tensest and tightest moments of the whole Football League bibliography.

That story is that of the play-offs. A daring shootout consisting of a two-legged semi-final and a final showdown at a pressure cooker called Wembley for the final spot in the league above. Four combatants of varying league success will step foot into the chaotic competition, with one remaining.

Chesterfield and Walsall are two of the League Two teams hoping that this year will be there, with Chesterfield playing hosts this Sunday.

Key Statistics

• Walsall looked set to earn automatic promotion, but a dismal 13-game winless streak saw them bomb away from contention
• A final-day win against Crewe Alexandra would have been enough to rescue a top-three finish, but a stunning 96th minute winner by Bradford saw them condemned to play-off action
• Chesterfield were as low as 16th by MW29, but recovered with a fine vein of form to snatch the final play-off spot with a final day win over Accrington Stanley
• The Spireites are led by infamous marksman Will Grigg, who fired home 12 league goals on their way to 7th place in League Two

Chesterfield Preview

Chesterfield Predicted Lineup: Boot; Mandeville, Palmer, McFadzean, Gordon, Fleck, Metcalfe, Naylor, Dobra, Colclough, Grigg Though Chesterfield may not have been in League Two for long, having won the National League title last season to get back into the Football League, they have certainly shown their quality on their way to the play-offs.

The Spireites are no strangers to playoff action, having unsuccessfully competed in them in the National League three times over before last season's title-winning promotion, and have roared into sudden contention as the League Two season began to approach it's curtain call.

Paul Cook's men flew into form in the final 13 games of the season, claiming 8 huge wins to rise from mid-table mediocrity into play-off hopefuls once again, with a final day win against Accrington Stanley lining up with a draw for Salfrd to seal it, looking to secure back-to-back promotions to head straight into League One contention.

In terms of available personnel for the semi-final clash, Chesterfield may receive a big boost with news that star player Armando Dobra has a "good chance" of appearing for the play-offs, having missed four games through injury. Jack Sparkes will also likely be within a shot of a return following a knee injury, though Ollie Banks is a doubt after a calf injury. Striker Paddy Madden picked up a tight hamstring in training before the clash with Accrington, and wasn't risked then, so it remains a mystery as to his potential involvement.

Walsall Preview

Walsall Predicted Lineup: Simkin; Okagbue, Williams, Allen, Adomah, Gordon, Stirk, Chang, Hall, Jellis, Amantchi Walsall fans can forgive themselves for their apparent disappointment at only securing a play-off spot this season.

Though it was ultimately a last-gasp Bradford City winner that ripped automatic promotion away from them, despite The Saddlers claiming their first win since February to initially wrap it up, the damage had been done by Walsall themselves already.

Matt Sadler's side were, at a point, cruising at the top of the table, having sat in first place since the 17th game of the season. However, an unbelievable run of poor form struck the Bescot Stadium, winning just 5 matches in 2025 before the final day, and taking just 8 points from the 13 games prior to the final day too.

Though a 59th-minute George Hall winner seemed to be enough to still secure a guaranteed place in League One for 25/26, Bradford's dramatics ensured that there would be no easy escape from Walsall's awful fortunes in the League Two run-in.

Walsall will now be faced with the daunting task of the play-offs. Having held such a comfortable lead, initially, in League Two's regular season, to claw back anything worth boasting from their 24/25 campaign.

In terms of who is available for their rescue mission in Chesterfield, midfielder Jack Earing and defender Priestley Farquharson are expected to remain absent with long-term injuries.

Chesterfield vs Walsall Head-to-Head

Last five meetings:

• Walsall 3-1 Chesterfield - League Two - 15/02/25
• Chesterfield 2-2 Walsall - League Two - 05/10/24
• Walsall 1-0 Chesterfield - League One - 07/03/17
• Chesterfield 2-0 Walsall - League One - 16/08/16
• Chesterfield 1-4 Walsall - League One - 16/03/16

Chesterfield vs Walsall Betting Tip

Whilst traditionally, in play-off action, league form tends to go out of the window, a first leg at home and a surge of confidence will have Chesterfield optimistic going into their first play-off fixture.

Our experts have predicted that Chesterfield will come away with the win in this one, with Full-Time Result: Chesterfield landing as our best bet.

You can snag that market at a tempting 23/20 with Ladbrokes, meaning a £10 stake will return a solid £21.50!

Chesterfield vs Walsall Prediction

Chesterfield 1-0 Walsall Backed by a home crowd with belief behind them, we can see Chesterfield getting an opening win in this two-legged affair. However, with Walsall desperate to right their wrongs, we see this one remaining a close bout.

Cercle Brugge vs Anderlecht: Lineups, Predictions & Betting Tips

Match Details: 3 August, 2025 | Jan Breydelstadion | Belgian Pro League | 15:00 GMT

Team and Team preview, with our advanced algorithm predicting a Cercle Brugge win.

Cercle Brugge will be hoping to make home advantage count as we expect to see goals from both sides.

Key Betting Tip: Cercle Brugge WIN @ 2.88 (Betfred)

Cercle Brugge vs Anderlecht Predicted Lineups

Cercle Brugge Predicted XI: Delanghe, Magnee, Ravych, Utkus, Nazinho, Diaby, van der Bruggen, Agyekum, Gerkens, Minda, Ngoura

Anderlecht Predicted XI: Coosemans, Vroninks, Hey, Simic, Augustinsson, De Cat, Llansana, Degreef, Hazard, Angulo, Vazquez

The home side will be without Abdoul Ouattara who faces a lengthy spell on the sidelines.

Anderlecht will be without Elyess Dao and Killian Sardella.

Cercle Brugge vs Anderlecht Current League Standings

Anderlecht sit atop the Belgian Pro League after their emphatic opening day 5-2 victory aganst Westerlo, while Cercle Brugge are 11th after drawing their first game 0-0.

Cercle Brugge vs Anderlecht Head-to-Head Timeline

Anderlecht have been the superior side in the last 5 meetings between these two sides, winning 4 and drawing the other.

Recent Head-to-Head:

March 2025: Anderlecht 3-0 Cercle Bruge (Belgian Pro League)

November 2024: Cercle Brugge 0-5 Anderlecht (Belgian Pro League)

April 2024: Cercle Brugge 1-1 Anderlecht (Belgian Pro League)

April 2024: Anderlecht 3-0 Cercle Brugge (Belgian Pro League)

December 2023: Anderlecht 2-0 Cercle Brugge (Belgian Pro League)

Recent Cercle Brugge vs Anderlecht Matches Analysis

Cercle Brugge Last 5 Matches:

FCV Dender EH 0-0 Cercle Brugge (Belgian Pro League - 25/26)

Cercle Brugge 3-1 Patro Eisden (Belgian Pro League - 24/25)

Patro Eisden 1-5 Cercle Brugge (Belgian Pro League - 24/25)

Beerschot 4-2 Cercle Brugge (Belgian Pro League - 24/25)

Cercle Brugge 0-2 Kortrijk (Belgian Pro League - 24/25)

Cercle Brugge narrowly avoided relegation last season via the relegation playoffs.

Anderlecht Last 5 Matches:

Anderlecht 5-2 Westerlo (Belgian Pro League - 25/26)

Anderlecht 1-0 Häcken (Europa League Qualification)

Genk 2-1 Anderlecht (Belgian Pro League - 24/25)

Anderlecht 1-3 Club Brugge (Belgian Pro League - 24/25)

Anderlecht 0-0 Union St.Gilloise (Belgian Pro League - 24/25)

Anderlecht have made a stromg start to the campaign with wins domestically and in Europe.

Cercle Brugge vs Anderlecht Predictions

Our advanced algorithm analyses over 200 data points to generate these predictions with 53% confidence in a Cercle Brugge victory. The model factors in current form, head-to-head records, player availability, and tactical matchups.

Best Cercle Brugge vs Anderlecht Betting Tips

Football Park’s Best Bet: Cercle Brugge to WIN @ 2.88 - Our in-house betting tipsters have also predicted BTTS and OVER 2.5 goals.

Key Players to Watch: Cercle Brugge vs Anderlecht

Maxime Delanghe (Cercle Brugge) – The Belgian shot-stopper put in a player of the match performance in the season opener, and will need a similarly strong performance against Anderlecht.

Thorgan Hazrd (Anderlecht) – Hazard scored two in Anderlecht's rout against Westerlo.

Lawrence Agyekum (Cercle Brugge) – Agyekum was one of the better perfomers last season, and will be looking to help his side once again.

Nilson Angulo (Anderlecht) – The Ecuadorian is a fast exciting winger who scored and assisted in the season opener.

Cercle Brugge vs Anderlecht Match Facts

Referee: Wesli De Cremer

UK: DAZN UK

Europe: DAZN International

Stadium Information: Jan Breyelstadion will host this Belgian Pro League contest with a capacity of 29,000.

Stockport County vs Bolton Wanderers Predictions, Lineups & Betting Tips

Match Details: August 3rd, 2025 | Edgeley Park | League One | 12:00 GMT

On the opening day of the League One season, fallen giants Bolton Wanderers will take on Stockport County who just missed out on promotion last season.

Key Betting Tip: Both teams to score @1.75 odds represents excellent value based on the tip provided by our team of in-house tipsters.

Stockport County Predicted XI: Addai, O'Keeffe, Hoskonen, Olowu, Edun, Norwood, Bate, Moxon; Wootton, Mothersille, Fevrier

Bolton Wanderers Predicted XI: Sharman-Lowe, Forino-Joseph, Richard Taylor, Toal, Lolo, Simons, Sheehan, Schon, Gale, Dalby, Burstow

Stockport County vs Bolton Wanderers Current League Standings

This is the first match of the League One season, but last time out Stockport finished in third place—five points of Wrexham in third. In the play-offs, they lost on penalties to Leyton Orient. Bolton, on the other hand, finished 8th in League One, 10 points off a play-off position.

Stockport County vs Bolton Wanderers Head-to-Head Timeline

The two English sides have faced eachother 30 times in their history. They have an equal record with both teams winning 11 games and drawing eight. However, Stockport have edged out the most recent fixtures.

Recent Head-to-Head Results:

November 2021: Bolton Wanderers 2-2 Stockport County (FA Cup) November 2021: Stockport County 5-3 Bolton Wanderers (FA Cup) November 2023: Stockport County 0-2 Bolton Wanderers (Football League Trophy) November 2024: Stockport County 5-0 Bolton Wanderers (League One) March 2025: Bolton Wanderers 0-1 Stockport County (League One)

Stockport clearly hold the psychological advantage with three victories in their last five meetings, including that embarrassing 5-0 win last November. Stockport have scored 13 goals in the past five meetings, compared to just 7 from Bolton.

Bolton have still had moment of brilliance though, with a 2-0 win the Football League Trophy being an important win. They will be hoping to get back into form in this fixture on the 3rd.

Recent Stockport County vs Bolton Wanderers Matches Analysis

Stockport County Last 5 Matches:

Leyton Orient 2-2 Stockport (League One Play-off Semi-final) Stockport 1-1 Leyton Orient (League One Play-off Semi-final) Stockport 3-2 Bristol Rovers (Club Friendly) Salford City 1-1 Stockport (Club Friendly) Stockport 0-1 Hull (Club Friendly)

Stockport showed mixed form in their past five matches. A particularly devistating result was against Leyton Orient when they went out on penalties.

Bolton Wanderers Last 5 Matches:

Bolton 2-0 Orlando Pirates (Club Friendly) Barrow 0-1 Bolton (Club Friendly) Hibernian 0-2 Bolton (Club Friendly) Shewsbury 2-5 Bolton (Club Friendly) Bolton 2-0 Preston (Club Friendly)

Bolton on the other hand have been a team on amazing form. All of their matches have been pre-season friendlies so we should not look too much into it, but five wins from five is impressive nonethless.

##Stockport County vs Bolton Wanderers Predictions

Our advanced algorithm analyses over 200 data points to generate these predictions with 68% confidence in both teams to score. The model factors in current form, head-to-head records, player availability, and tactical matchups.

Best Stockport County vs Bolton Wanderers Betting Tips

Football Park’s Best Bet: Both teams to score @ 1.75 - Our team of in-house betting tipsters have predicted a Real Madrid win in this fixture. Their superior form, home advantage, and head-to-head record justify confidence in this selection.

Key Players to Watch: Stockport County vs Bolton Wanderers

Lewis Bate (Stockport County) The 22-year-old is one of the youngest captains in England. He joined Stockport from Leeds last summer and made an instant impact, playing 32 times scoring 2 goals.

Mason Burstow (Bolton Wanderers) The young English striker joins Bolton on loan from Hull City who spent last year in the Championship. The drop fown to League One could prove beneficial for both parties as he looks to make his mark on English football.

Stockport County vs Bolton Wanderers Match Facts

Stadium Information: Edgeley Park in Stockport serves as the home venue for this League One fixture. With a capacity of just over 10,800, it offers an intimate yet intense atmosphere, especially when the Cheadle End is in full voice. One of the oldest grounds in the Football League, Edgeley Park has hosted football since the early 20th century and remains a fortress for Stockport County,.