Carabao Cup

Barnsley

25 Aug 2026 19:45

Crewe Alexandra

Prediction:

Barnsley to win 1.65

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Barnsley vs Crewe Alexandra Predictions, Picks & Odds – 25/08/2026

Carabao Cup · 2nd Round

Our prediction

1: Barnsley to win

1.65 on Betano · Confidence Medium

Odds recorded on 24 Aug 2026 at 07:11 · Odds are subject to change

Barnsley vs Crewe Alexandra Preview

Barnsley's start to the League One campaign has been underwhelming, with one draw and one defeat from their opening two fixtures leaving them 21st in the table. Their Carabao Cup journey, however, offers a welcome distraction. The Reds scraped past Wigan Athletic on penalties after a 1-1 draw in the first round, showing resilience if not fluency. Oakwell has been a fortress in this competition recently, with Barnsley reaching the third round in each of the last two seasons.

Crewe Alexandra arrive in South Yorkshire brimming with confidence after a perfect start to the season. Lee Bell's side have won all three competitive matches so far, including a solid 2-1 victory over Accrington Stanley in the first round of this competition. Their early League Two form suggests a team with genuine momentum. Bell has spoken about his players' mentality and willingness to fight until the final whistle, a quality that could prove vital at Oakwell.

Barnsley's home advantage at Oakwell Stadium is the foundation of this pick. Despite their sluggish league form, the Tykes have demonstrated resilience in cup competition, reaching the Carabao Cup third round in each of the last two seasons. Their penalty shootout win over Wigan in the first round showed character. The home win at 1.65 reflects a strong implied probability that aligns with Barnsley's historical dominance over Crewe.

Crewe Alexandra arrive in fine form, winning all three competitive fixtures this season, including a solid first-round victory over Accrington Stanley. However, their recent head-to-head record against Barnsley is poor: three consecutive losses and just one win in the last seven meetings. Lee Bell's side will fancy their chances given their momentum, but the step up in opposition quality and an away trip to Oakwell present a real challenge.

The value sits with a Barnsley win combined with goals in this fixture. Both teams scored in Barnsley's first-round tie, and Crewe have been finding the net regularly. Both teams to score at 1.03 looks appealing alongside the home win at 1.65. Crewe's attacking intent under Bell should ensure they threaten, but Barnsley's cup pedigree and head-to-head superiority should prove decisive. Odds correct at time of publication.

Trends to Know about Barnsley vs Crewe Alexandra

• Barnsley won six of last fifteen meetings
• Crewe unbeaten with three straight wins
• Barnsley reached third round twice recently

A 4-3-3 vs 4-3-3 mirror sets up a compact, shape-driven contest at Oakwell. Both sides line up with identical structures, meaning the midfield battle will likely be decisive, with C. McGeehan and J. White positioned as key creative fulcrums in their respective central trios.

Both lineups carry probable status from the same pair of sources, so confidence levels are evenly matched heading into this second-round Carabao Cup tie. Barnsley's front three will look to exploit home advantage early, while Crewe's wide options give them genuine counter-attacking threat on the break.

How to Watch Barnsley vs Crewe Alexandra Match?

What time is Barnsley vs Crewe Alexandra?

Barnsley host Crewe Alexandra at Oakwell on 25th August 2026, with kickoff set for 19:45.

Where is Barnsley vs Crewe Alexandra being played?

This Carabao Cup second round tie will be played at Oakwell Stadium in Barnsley.

How Can I Watch Barnsley vs Crewe Alexandra on TV and Live Stream?

Check local listings for Carabao Cup second round broadcast details, as coverage varies by region.