EFL Cup Predictions: Best Bets, Odds & Third Round Picks

There will be a break in the Premier League action this week, as the EFL Cup third round continues.

Teams that were involved in the Champions League last week will kick off their domestic cup campaigns across Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday, with the goal of picking up the first domestic silverware of 2026-27 as the main objective for clubs involved.

Man United will be aiming to bounce back from the Derby defeat against Man City, while a heavyweight showdown between Liverpool and Tottenham headlines the midweek action. You can find the best betting angles and our EFL Cup picks for the third round here.

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EFL Cup Best Bets & Top Value Picks

• Best Pick: Brentford (vs. Reading)
• Best Both Teams to Score (BTTS): Man United vs. Brighton
• Best Value Over/Under: Liverpool vs. Tottenham (Over 2.5)

ALSO SEE: Presidents Cup Picks, Odds & Betting Preview (Sep 24-27)

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Key Fixture Breakdown & Predictions

Liverpool vs. Tottenham Prediction & Odds

Kickoff: Tuesday, September 15 | Anfield, Liverpool

Match Preview

Tottenham’s disastrous start to the new season shows no sign of stopping, as Roberto De Zerbi’s side are still yet to score or win a fixture in the Premier League.

Andoni Iraola has also endured teething problems at Liverpool, most recently in a 0-0 home draw against Fulham, meaning that the Reds are winless in two domestic home fixtures under the Spaniard.

However, a home victory is so hard to oppose this week. Liverpool have lost just one of their previous 34 at Anfield against Tottenham, and the Reds have avoided defeat in their last four against Spurs overall.

• Best Bet: Liverpool (-119)

Man United vs. Brighton Prediction & Odds

Kickoff: Wednesday, September 16 | Old Trafford, Manchester

Match Preview

A huge five days awaits Michael Carrick in his Man United reign, as the Red Devils bid to bounce back following a toothless display in the derby defeat against Man City.

United have won just twice in all competitions this term, despite having a very winnable run on paper. The Red Devils endured early exits in both domestic cup competitions last season, and a repeat could leave Carrick’s future in jeopardy.

Brighton’s excellent start to the campaign continued with a dominant win at Coventry on Sunday, and their claims are clear after winning three of their previous five against the Red Devils.

• Best Bet: Brighton (+275)

Coventry vs. Aston Villa Prediction & Odds

Kickoff: Wednesday, September 16 | Coventry Building Society Arena, Coventry

Match Preview

Two struggling Premier League teams collide in the EFL Cup this week, as Coventry City play host to Aston Villa. In eight matches combined, these two sides have scored just one domestic goal in the top-flight this season.

Coventry’s weak defensive record has already seen them allow ten goals without reply, while Villa suffered a third defeat in four on Saturday against Nottingham Forest.

A huge EPL showdown with Tottenham awaits for the visitors on Saturday, meaning key stars could be rested, which may hand the advantage to the hosts.

• Best Bet: Coventry (+192)

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EFL Cup Best Parlay Pick

Premier League advantage could be huge when considering EFL Cup parlay picks this week, meaning victories for Arsenal and Brentford will rank as solid selections to enhance returns. Man City should also be capable of making their dominance count against Championship Norwich City. The final leg could come in the form of Liverpool, which will enhance returns against a fellow EPL heavyweight.

• Best EFL Cup Parlay Bet: Liverpool, Arsenal, Man City & Brentford All to Win (+289)