{"match":{"id":772939,"date":"2025-09-23T18:45:00.000Z","status":"fixture","winner":null,"score_a":0,"score_b":0,"venue_type":"home_away","final_period":"soc_p2s","createdAt":"2025-09-03T10:30:56.543Z","updatedAt":"2025-09-03T15:01:55.680Z","gameweek":0,"attendance":0,"display_name":"2025-09-23 18:45:00 Wolverhampton Wanderers FC vs Everton FC","locale":"en","stb_id":"2025-09-23-18-45-00-wolverhampton-wanderers-fc-vs-everton-fc","overview":null,"leg":null,"result_info":null,"interesting_facts_team_a":null,"interesting_facts_team_b":null,"match_summary":null,"key_quotes":null,"match_statistics":null,"match_timeline":null,"league_standings":null,"head_to_head_analysis":null,"link_buy_ticket":null,"position":null,"stb_internal_id":"01990f21-2775-79d7-a7e2-3460d1c0ab0b","overrides":null,"broadcast_link":null,"after_broadcast_link":null,"has_article_relations":null,"has_social_media_relations":null,"has_odds":null,"has_h2h":true,"has_overview":null,"has_statistics":false,"has_lineups":false,"has_predictions":null,"interesting_facts_team_a_html":null,"interesting_facts_team_b_html":null,"match_summary_html":null,"key_quotes_html":null,"match_statistics_html":null,"match_timeline_html":null,"league_standings_html":null,"head_to_head_analysis_html":null,"team_a":{"id":49652,"name":"Wolverhampton Wanderers FC","short_name":"Wolverhampton","tla_name":"WOL","type":"club","gender":"male","status":"active","official_name":"Wolverhampton Wanderers Football Club","founded":1877,"colors":"Black,Gold","nicknames":"Wolves,The Wanderers","createdAt":"2024-11-04T12:40:16.554Z","updatedAt":"2025-08-11T11:29:36.151Z","website":"http://www.wolves.co.uk","address":"Waterloo Road","address_city":"Wolverhampton","address_zip":"WV1 4QR","locale":"en","stb_id":"wolverhampton-wanderers-fc","tier":null,"description":null,"top_position":null,"history_and_foundation":"## Wolverhampton: all pro club\n\n**Wolverhampton** is not just any old English team with a long name. This is a club with **deep roots**, a recognizable style and supporters that **don't change colors** even when times get tough.\n\nFounded in **1877** in the city of **Wolverhampton**, the club became one of the **founders of the English Football League**. Throughout their history, **Wolves** won the **national championship** three times, won the **FA Cup** twice and left a **markable mark on British football**.\n\n> \"Wolverhampton is not about a fashionable image or hype. It's about footballing integrity, about style that is sustained by the strength of spirit.\"","sporting_achievements":"## Wolverhampton history\n\nThe story of **\"wolves\"** began in **school**, where **two teachers** decided to create a football team for their students. Over time, this hobby grew into a **serious club**, which in **1888** became one of the **founders of the English Football League**.\n\n**From the very beginning** **Wolverhampton** stood out for its **militancy** - the team was **tough but fair**, aggressive but disciplined.\n\nThe **golden period** for the club came in the **1950s**. Then **Wolverhampton** won the **Championship of England three times** — in **1954, 1958 and 1959**. The head coach was the legendary **Stan Kallis**, who made the team a **real force**.\n\n> \"It was during this period that the Wolves first started playing evening friendly matches with European teams under electric lighting — these games became a precursor to the creation of European cups.\"\n\n**Then came difficult times:** the team left, returned, changed owners and was looking for itself. But **the love of the fans did not fade**.\n\n**In the 2000s** **Wolverhampton** re-emerged in the **Premier League**, albeit for a short time. **Real revival** began with the arrival of **new management in 2016**. Thanks to **competent transfers**, a strong coaching staff and a clear plan, the team quickly returned to the **elite** and even made it to the **European Cups**.\n\n**Today, Wolves** is a team that is not fighting for survival, but for **a place at the top of the table**. She didn't just come back — **she settled down**.","club_identity":"## Wolverhampton Stadium\n\n**Wolverhampton**'s home arena is **Molineux**. Built back in **1889**, this stadium is **one of the oldest in England**. Its capacity now is slightly more than **31 thousand spectators**, but the atmosphere there is such that **more are not needed**.\n\n**Molineux** is located close to the **city centre** and actually **blends into the landscape** of Wolverhampton.\n\n> \"Everything here is very English: tight stands, proximity to the field, the hum of voices under the roofs of the sectors.\"\n\n**When the **Wolves** anthem is played at Molineux** is not just the beginning of the match, it is a **charge for 90 minutes of struggle**. **Unique thing** — the stadium has retained its **authenticity**, although it has undergone several reconstructions.\n\n**They don't try** to impress with facades here — **football works here**.\n\n## Wolverhampton achievements\n\n**Wolverhampton** is a club with trophies that **have weight**:\n\n* **Three times** the team won the **England Championship**: in **1953/54, 1957/58 and 1958/59**. These were the years of dominance - **Wolves** were considered the main competition of **Manchester United and Arsenal**.\n\n* Also in the collection are **two FA Cups** (**1893 and 1908**) and **four League Cups**.\n\n* In **1972**, the team reached the **UEFA Cup final**, where they lost to another English team — **Tottenham**. It proved that **Wolverhampton** can play not only at home, but also on the **big European stage**.\n\n**In recent history** the club finished in the **Top 7 of the Premier League** and reached the **Quarterfinals of the Europa League 2019/20**. It was a confirmation that **Wolverhampton** is **among the serious players** again.\n\n## Wolverhampton famous players\n\nThe name that comes to mind first is **Billy Wright**. **Legend of the club**, captain of the **England national team**, **the first footballer** who played **one hundred matches for the national team**. He personified everything that **\"wolves\"** have: **honor, character and endurance**.\n\n**Of the more modern heroes** is **Steve Bull**, a striker who played for **Wolverhampton** when the club was in the **lower divisions** but scored as a top forward. He is still respected - not only for his goals, but for his **loyalty**.\n\n> \"In the 21st century, the club revealed many new names: Ruben Neves, Raul Jimenez, Adama Traore, Conor Cody.\"\n\n**These are football players** who made the team **visible even among the giants**. They weren't just playing, they were **shaping a new era** for **Wolves**.","current_status_and_future":"## Wolverhampton interesting facts\n\n* **Wolverhampton** is the **first club** to wear **numbered shirts**. Such an innovation appeared back in the **30s**.\n\n* **One more fact:** in the **50s**, the team regularly played **the best European clubs** under the floodlights, and this was **the impetus for the creation of the Champions League**.\n\n* **Official Fan Song** is **\"Hi Ho Silver Lining\"**. It is performed at the beginning of every home game, and it does not sound like pop from the speakers, but like a **ritual**.\n\n* **More interesting:** the symbol of the club — the **wolf** — is actively used in marketing, uniform design and even in details on the **stadium seats**.\n\n> \"Wolverhampton is not about a fancy image or hype. It's about footballing integrity, a style that lives up to the spirit and that a story, if it's true, never gets old.\"\n\n**It is worth noting** that **Wolverhampton** continues to **write its history**, combining **glorious traditions** with modern ambitions. Will the **wolves** be able to return the **championship titles**? One thing is certain - the **spirit of Molineux** and the **loyalty of the fans** make **Wolverhampton** a special place where **tradition lives on** and **the character of the team** has remained unchanged for over **140 years**. This is a club that **proves** that real power is not in money, but in **history and identity**.","stb_internal_id":"0192f730-af2f-713b-be06-de7391d2d196","overrides":null,"has_social_media_links":true,"has_social_media_relations":true,"has_membership_relations":true,"has_matches":true,"has_article_relations":false,"history_and_foundation_html":"

Wolverhampton: all pro club

Wolverhampton is not just any old English team with a long name. This is a club with deep roots, a recognizable style and supporters that don't change colors even when times get tough.

Founded in 1877 in the city of Wolverhampton, the club became one of the founders of the English Football League. Throughout their history, Wolves won the national championship three times, won the FA Cup twice and left a markable mark on British football.

\n
\"Wolverhampton is not about a fashionable image or hype. It's about footballing integrity, about style that is sustained by the strength of spirit.\"
\n

\n","sporting_achievements_html":"

Wolverhampton history

The story of \"wolves\" began in school, where two teachers decided to create a football team for their students. Over time, this hobby grew into a serious club, which in 1888 became one of the founders of the English Football League.

From the very beginning Wolverhampton stood out for its militancy - the team was tough but fair, aggressive but disciplined.

The golden period for the club came in the 1950s. Then Wolverhampton won the Championship of England three times — in 1954, 1958 and 1959. The head coach was the legendary Stan Kallis, who made the team a real force.

\n
\"It was during this period that the Wolves first started playing evening friendly matches with European teams under electric lighting — these games became a precursor to the creation of European cups.\"
\n

Then came difficult times: the team left, returned, changed owners and was looking for itself. But the love of the fans did not fade.

In the 2000s Wolverhampton re-emerged in the Premier League, albeit for a short time. Real revival began with the arrival of new management in 2016. Thanks to competent transfers, a strong coaching staff and a clear plan, the team quickly returned to the elite and even made it to the European Cups.

Today, Wolves is a team that is not fighting for survival, but for a place at the top of the table. She didn't just come back — she settled down.

\n","club_identity_html":"

Wolverhampton Stadium

Wolverhampton's home arena is Molineux. Built back in 1889, this stadium is one of the oldest in England. Its capacity now is slightly more than 31 thousand spectators, but the atmosphere there is such that more are not needed.

Molineux is located close to the city centre and actually blends into the landscape of Wolverhampton.

\n
\"Everything here is very English: tight stands, proximity to the field, the hum of voices under the roofs of the sectors.\"
\n

When the Wolves anthem is played at Molineux is not just the beginning of the match, it is a charge for 90 minutes of struggle. Unique thing — the stadium has retained its authenticity, although it has undergone several reconstructions.

They don't try to impress with facades here — football works here.

Wolverhampton achievements

Wolverhampton is a club with trophies that have weight:

Three times the team won the England Championship: in 1953/54, 1957/58 and 1958/59. These were the years of dominance - Wolves were considered the main competition of Manchester United and Arsenal.
\n
Also in the collection are two FA Cups (1893 and 1908) and four League Cups.
\n
In 1972, the team reached the UEFA Cup final, where they lost to another English team — Tottenham. It proved that Wolverhampton can play not only at home, but also on the big European stage.
\n

In recent history the club finished in the Top 7 of the Premier League and reached the Quarterfinals of the Europa League 2019/20. It was a confirmation that Wolverhampton is among the serious players again.

Wolverhampton famous players

The name that comes to mind first is Billy Wright. Legend of the club, captain of the England national team, the first footballer who played one hundred matches for the national team. He personified everything that \"wolves\" have: honor, character and endurance.

Of the more modern heroes is Steve Bull, a striker who played for Wolverhampton when the club was in the lower divisions but scored as a top forward. He is still respected - not only for his goals, but for his loyalty.

\n
\"In the 21st century, the club revealed many new names: Ruben Neves, Raul Jimenez, Adama Traore, Conor Cody.\"
\n

These are football players who made the team visible even among the giants. They weren't just playing, they were shaping a new era for Wolves.

\n","current_status_and_future_html":"

Wolverhampton interesting facts

Wolverhampton is the first club to wear numbered shirts. Such an innovation appeared back in the 30s.
\n
One more fact: in the 50s, the team regularly played the best European clubs under the floodlights, and this was the impetus for the creation of the Champions League.
\n
Official Fan Song is \"Hi Ho Silver Lining\". It is performed at the beginning of every home game, and it does not sound like pop from the speakers, but like a ritual.
\n
More interesting: the symbol of the club — the wolf — is actively used in marketing, uniform design and even in details on the stadium seats.
\n

\n
\"Wolverhampton is not about a fancy image or hype. It's about footballing integrity, a style that lives up to the spirit and that a story, if it's true, never gets old.\"
\n

It is worth noting that Wolverhampton continues to write its history, combining glorious traditions with modern ambitions. Will the wolves be able to return the championship titles? One thing is certain - the spirit of Molineux and the loyalty of the fans make Wolverhampton a special place where tradition lives on and the character of the team has remained unchanged for over 140 years. This is a club that proves that real power is not in money, but in history and identity.

\n","logo":{"url":"https://media.top2u.io/877/879/459_5ce7d48188.png","mime":"image/png","caption":null,"formats":{"large_avif":{"url":"https://media.top2u.io/877/879/large_avif_459_5ce7d48188.avif","mime":"image/avif"},"large_webp":{"url":"https://media.top2u.io/877/879/large_webp_459_5ce7d48188.webp","mime":"image/webp"},"small_avif":{"url":"https://media.top2u.io/877/879/small_avif_459_5ce7d48188.avif","mime":"image/avif"},"small_webp":{"url":"https://media.top2u.io/877/879/small_webp_459_5ce7d48188.webp","mime":"image/webp"},"medium_avif":{"url":"https://media.top2u.io/877/879/medium_avif_459_5ce7d48188.avif","mime":"image/avif"},"medium_webp":{"url":"https://media.top2u.io/877/879/medium_webp_459_5ce7d48188.webp","mime":"image/webp"}}}},"team_b":{"id":49655,"name":"Everton FC","short_name":"Everton","tla_name":"EVE","type":"club","gender":"male","status":"active","official_name":"Everton Football Club","founded":1878,"colors":"Blue,White","nicknames":"The Toffees,The Blues","createdAt":"2024-11-04T12:40:19.107Z","updatedAt":"2025-08-11T11:38:40.283Z","website":"http://www.evertonfc.com","address":"Goodison Park","address_city":"Liverpool","address_zip":"L4 4EL","locale":"en","stb_id":"everton-fc","tier":null,"description":null,"top_position":null,"history_and_foundation":"## Overview of Everton club\n\n**Everton** is a club that **doesn't need loud advertising**. Its history, atmosphere and traditions **speak for themselves**. Founded in **1878** in **Liverpool**, it is one of **the oldest and most stable clubs in England**.\n\nThe Toffees, as the fans affectionately call them, have won the National Championship nine times, have several FA Cups and an unshakable reputation as a club with character.\n\n> \"Everton is about loyalty, endurance and true football soul.\"","sporting_achievements":"## Everton history\n\nThe history of **Everton** began in one of the **churches in the Liverpool area** - just like many English teams of the **19th century**. But this club quickly went beyond **amateur hobby**. Already in **1888** **Everton** became one of the **founders of the English Football League**.\n\n**The first championship** came in **1891**, and since then the club has not disappeared from the map of **serious football**. In different periods, the team experienced **ups and downs**, but never lost its **identity**. An **important moment** in history was the appearance of **Goodison Park** — a stadium that became **the real symbol of the club**.\n\n**In the 60s** **Everton** won the championship and played in the **European Cups**, and in the **80s** under the leadership of **Howard Kendall** the team became one of the **best in Europe**. **Victory in the 1985 Cup Winners' Cup** is proof of that.\n\n> \"Back then the squad was strong: Trevor Stephen, Peter Reid, Graham Sharpe and of course the legendary goalkeeper Neville Southall.\"\n\n**In the 90s and 2000s** the team fought more for a place in the **Premier League** than for titles. But at the same time **Everton** remained a **serious club** — not loud, but strong. With the arrival of **David Moyes in 2002**, the team stabilized, played in **European Cups** and showed good football.\n\n**Today Everton** is going through difficult times — **financial difficulties**, reconstruction, **new stadium**. But the club **doesn't lose face**. And as long as there are **real fans** in the stands, the team has a **future**.","club_identity":"## Everton stadium\n\n**Goodison Park** is more than a place for football. This is **home**. Opened in **1892**, it was one of the **first stadiums in England** built specifically for football. Located in **the very heart of Liverpool**, it holds a little more than **39 thousand spectators**, but the atmosphere here is **like in a stadium twice the size**.\n\n**Goodison** is a stadium where **every scream, every kick of the ball can be heard**. The stands are so close to the field that it seems as if the players **hear every word from the fan section**.\n\n> \"On derby days with Liverpool, the energy literally turns the stadium inside out.\"\n\n**In the coming years** **Everton** will move to a new arena - **Bramley Moor Dock**. This is a modern stadium with more than **52 thousand seats**. But the fans are already saying: **We will never forget Goodison**. Because this is the place where they **grew up with the club**.\n\n## Everton achievements\n\n**Everton** have an **impressive collection of titles**, even if they haven't been updated in recent years:\n\n* **Nine times** the club won the **England Championship** — the last time in **1987**.\n* **Five times** the team won the **FA Cup** — in **1906, 1933, 1966, 1984 and 1995**.\n* There are also **two Super Bowls** and a **Football League Cup Final**.\n* **Greatest achievement in Europe** — winning the **1985 Cup Winners' Cup**. It was the same year that the team put together a **perfect line-up** and beat opponents with scores that **left no questions**.\n\n> \"Although there were no trophies in the 21st century, Everton regularly qualified for European Cups, played in the Europa League, and fought for the top 6.\"\n\n**It's a club** that's always there, even when it's overlooked.","current_status_and_future":"## Everton famous players\n\n1. **Neville Southall** is a goalkeeper who is remembered not only for saves, but also for **charisma**. He is **the face of the 80s team**.\n\n2. **Dixie Dean**. This name is familiar even to those who have never seen it in action. He scored **60 goals in a season** — a **record** that still hasn't been broken.\n\n3. **Dedicated hearts of the club** — **Tim Cagill, Leighton Baines, Tony Hibbert**. They were never superstars, but they became **themselves to thousands of people**.\n\n4. And also — **Rooney**, who **started here**. It was from **Everton** that he broke into big football. His **debut goal against Arsenal** is already a **classic**.\n\n> \"Today, the new generation is looking for itself. But in every new player, the fans see a potential hero. Because at Everton, they don't believe in names, but in people.\"\n\n## Everton interesting facts\n\n* **Everton** is the club that has played **the most seasons in England's top division**. It's about **stability**. Even without regular trophies, the club was always in the **elite**.\n\n* **Another point of interest** — it was **Everton** that was **Liverpool's first club**, and later some of its management left and created **Liverpool FC**.\n\n> \"So the Merseyside derby isn't just a match. It's a family rivalry that started at the same address.\"\n\n**It is worth noting** that **Everton** continues to **maintain its identity** despite all the challenges of modern football. Will the club be able to **return championship traditions**? One thing is certain - the **spirit of Goodison Park** and the **loyalty of the fans** make **Everton** a special place where **traditions are alive** and **character of the team** is passed down from generation to generation. This is a club that **proves** that true strength lies in **consistency** and **loyalty to its principles**, even when times call for change.","stb_internal_id":"0192f730-b8aa-749b-98e9-c6c715f08154","overrides":null,"has_social_media_links":true,"has_social_media_relations":true,"has_membership_relations":true,"has_matches":true,"has_article_relations":false,"history_and_foundation_html":"

Overview of Everton club

Everton is a club that doesn't need loud advertising. Its history, atmosphere and traditions speak for themselves. Founded in 1878 in Liverpool, it is one of the oldest and most stable clubs in England.

The Toffees, as the fans affectionately call them, have won the National Championship nine times, have several FA Cups and an unshakable reputation as a club with character.

\n
\"Everton is about loyalty, endurance and true football soul.\"
\n

\n","sporting_achievements_html":"

Everton history

The history of Everton began in one of the churches in the Liverpool area - just like many English teams of the 19th century. But this club quickly went beyond amateur hobby. Already in 1888 Everton became one of the founders of the English Football League.

The first championship came in 1891, and since then the club has not disappeared from the map of serious football. In different periods, the team experienced ups and downs, but never lost its identity. An important moment in history was the appearance of Goodison Park — a stadium that became the real symbol of the club.

In the 60s Everton won the championship and played in the European Cups, and in the 80s under the leadership of Howard Kendall the team became one of the best in Europe. Victory in the 1985 Cup Winners' Cup is proof of that.

\n
\"Back then the squad was strong: Trevor Stephen, Peter Reid, Graham Sharpe and of course the legendary goalkeeper Neville Southall.\"
\n

In the 90s and 2000s the team fought more for a place in the Premier League than for titles. But at the same time Everton remained a serious club — not loud, but strong. With the arrival of David Moyes in 2002, the team stabilized, played in European Cups and showed good football.

Today Everton is going through difficult times — financial difficulties, reconstruction, new stadium. But the club doesn't lose face. And as long as there are real fans in the stands, the team has a future.

\n","club_identity_html":"

Everton stadium

Goodison Park is more than a place for football. This is home. Opened in 1892, it was one of the first stadiums in England built specifically for football. Located in the very heart of Liverpool, it holds a little more than 39 thousand spectators, but the atmosphere here is like in a stadium twice the size.

Goodison is a stadium where every scream, every kick of the ball can be heard. The stands are so close to the field that it seems as if the players hear every word from the fan section.

\n
\"On derby days with Liverpool, the energy literally turns the stadium inside out.\"
\n

In the coming years Everton will move to a new arena - Bramley Moor Dock. This is a modern stadium with more than 52 thousand seats. But the fans are already saying: We will never forget Goodison. Because this is the place where they grew up with the club.

Everton achievements

Everton have an impressive collection of titles, even if they haven't been updated in recent years:

Nine times the club won the England Championship — the last time in 1987.
Five times the team won the FA Cup — in 1906, 1933, 1966, 1984 and 1995.
There are also two Super Bowls and a Football League Cup Final.
Greatest achievement in Europe — winning the 1985 Cup Winners' Cup. It was the same year that the team put together a perfect line-up and beat opponents with scores that left no questions.

\n
\"Although there were no trophies in the 21st century, Everton regularly qualified for European Cups, played in the Europa League, and fought for the top 6.\"
\n

It's a club that's always there, even when it's overlooked.

\n","current_status_and_future_html":"

Everton famous players

Neville Southall is a goalkeeper who is remembered not only for saves, but also for charisma. He is the face of the 80s team.
\n
Dixie Dean. This name is familiar even to those who have never seen it in action. He scored 60 goals in a season — a record that still hasn't been broken.
\n
Dedicated hearts of the club — Tim Cagill, Leighton Baines, Tony Hibbert. They were never superstars, but they became themselves to thousands of people.
\n
And also — Rooney, who started here. It was from Everton that he broke into big football. His debut goal against Arsenal is already a classic.
\n

\n
\"Today, the new generation is looking for itself. But in every new player, the fans see a potential hero. Because at Everton, they don't believe in names, but in people.\"
\n

Everton interesting facts

Everton is the club that has played the most seasons in England's top division. It's about stability. Even without regular trophies, the club was always in the elite.
\n
Another point of interest — it was Everton that was Liverpool's first club, and later some of its management left and created Liverpool FC.
\n

\n
\"So the Merseyside derby isn't just a match. It's a family rivalry that started at the same address.\"
\n

It is worth noting that Everton continues to maintain its identity despite all the challenges of modern football. Will the club be able to return championship traditions? One thing is certain - the spirit of Goodison Park and the loyalty of the fans make Everton a special place where traditions are alive and character of the team is passed down from generation to generation. This is a club that proves that true strength lies in consistency and loyalty to its principles, even when times call for change.

\n","logo":{"url":"https://media.top2u.io/877/879/473_dce02a0533.png","mime":"image/png","caption":null,"formats":{"large_avif":{"url":"https://media.top2u.io/877/879/large_avif_473_dce02a0533.avif","mime":"image/avif"},"large_webp":{"url":"https://media.top2u.io/877/879/large_webp_473_dce02a0533.webp","mime":"image/webp"},"small_avif":{"url":"https://media.top2u.io/877/879/small_avif_473_dce02a0533.avif","mime":"image/avif"},"small_webp":{"url":"https://media.top2u.io/877/879/small_webp_473_dce02a0533.webp","mime":"image/webp"},"medium_avif":{"url":"https://media.top2u.io/877/879/medium_avif_473_dce02a0533.avif","mime":"image/avif"},"medium_webp":{"url":"https://media.top2u.io/877/879/medium_webp_473_dce02a0533.webp","mime":"image/webp"}}}}},"league":{"id":571,"name":"Football League Cup","gender":"male","type":"club","format":"domestic_league_cup","createdAt":"2024-11-04T12:41:48.230Z","updatedAt":"2025-08-05T00:10:58.753Z","stb_id":"football-league-cup","position":null,"locale":"en","description":"# Football League Cup\n\n## Introduction\n\nThe **Football League Cup** stands as one of the most prestigious domestic cup competitions in English football. Commonly referred to as the **EFL Cup** due to its sponsorship by the English Football League, this knockout tournament occupies a significant position in the country's football hierarchy. Though it ranks below the FA Cup in terms of historical prestige, the Football League Cup football competition has carved out its own unique identity in the footballing landscape of England.\n\nEstablished as the third most important domestic competition after the Premier League and FA Cup, the Football League Cup statistics reveal its enduring popularity among fans and clubs alike. The tournament provides an alternative route to European qualification, offering the winner a place in the UEFA Conference League, which further enhances its appeal among participating teams.\n\n## History\n\nThe **Football League Cup history** dates back to 1960 when it was founded by Alan Hardaker, who served as Secretary of the Football League at that time. The Football League Cup creation emerged from practical considerations – primarily to provide additional midweek fixtures for clubs that faced early elimination from the FA Cup and to generate additional revenue through increased gate receipts.\n\nThe Football League Cup development has seen numerous format changes throughout its existence. During its early years (1960-1966), finals were contested over two legs, but this changed in the 1966-67 season when the final was moved to Wembley Stadium, significantly elevating the tournament's status. \n\nInitially, the competition faced resistance from some of England's top clubs, who viewed it as an unnecessary addition to their already congested schedules. However, the Football League Cup history took a significant turn when a UEFA Cup (now UEFA Europa League) place was awarded to the winner from the 1971-72 season onwards. This development dramatically increased participation from elite teams, solidifying the tournament's importance in English football.\n\n**Aston Villa** claimed the inaugural trophy in the 1960-61 season, marking the beginning of what would become a storied competition in English football.\n\n## Competition Format\n\nThe **Football League Cup format** embraces inclusivity, with all 92 clubs from the Premier League and English Football League eligible to participate. The Football League Cup rules establish a progressive knockout structure consisting of seven rounds, culminating in a showpiece final at Wembley Stadium.\n\nThe Football League Cup tournament begins with lower-league teams entering in the first round. Premier League clubs not involved in European competitions join in the second round, while those participating in European tournaments enter at the third round stage. This staggered entry system creates opportunities for smaller clubs to progress before facing elite opposition.\n\nOne of the distinctive Football League Cup rules involves the structure of matches. All fixtures are decided in single-legged ties, with the exception of the semi-finals, which are played over two legs. In case of a draw after regular time, matches proceed directly to penalty shootouts without extra time (except in the final), adding to the excitement and unpredictability of the competition.\n\n## Famous Teams\n\nThroughout its history, several Football League Cup teams have established themselves as particularly successful in this competition. **Liverpool** stands as the most decorated club in Football League Cup history, having accumulated more titles than any other team. Their dominance in this tournament has contributed significantly to their overall trophy cabinet.\n\nOther Football League Cup clubs with impressive records include **Manchester City**, who achieved remarkable dominance in recent years under Pep Guardiola's management. **Aston Villa**, **Manchester United**, **Chelsea**, and **Tottenham Hotspur** also feature prominently among the Football League Cup winners.\n\nThe competition has witnessed several notable rivalries played out in memorable finals. The North London derby between **Arsenal** and **Tottenham Hotspur** has produced some thrilling encounters, while matches between **Liverpool** and **Manchester United** never fail to generate excitement regardless of the competition.\n\n## Statistics and Records\n\nThe Football League Cup records showcase the tournament's rich history and competitive nature. **Liverpool** holds the distinction of winning the most titles, demonstrating their historical commitment to this competition despite its perceived secondary status.\n\nIn terms of Football League Cup statistics, the tournament has provided a platform for numerous goal-scoring feats. The competition has witnessed remarkable \"giant-killing\" moments where lower-division teams have toppled Premier League giants, creating some of the most memorable upsets in English football.\n\nMany Football League Cup players have etched their names in the competition's folklore through outstanding individual performances. The tournament's history features numerous hat-tricks, spectacular goals, and heroic goalkeeping displays that have decided the outcome of crucial matches.\n\n**Manchester City's** recent period of dominance represents another significant Football League Cup record, highlighting how seriously top clubs now take this competition despite its humble beginnings.\n\n## Current State\n\nThe present Football League Cup season maintains the traditional format that has evolved over decades. The competition continues to involve all 92 professional clubs in the English football pyramid, with the same progressive entry system based on league status and European commitments.\n\nDespite occasional debates about its relevance in an increasingly congested football calendar, the Football League Cup today remains highly valued by clubs for several reasons. For top teams, it represents an opportunity to secure silverware relatively early in the season and provides valuable playing time for squad players and promising youth talents. For smaller clubs, it offers the chance to test themselves against elite opposition and potentially generate significant revenue through memorable cup runs.\n\nThe Football League Cup overview in modern football shows that while it may not command the same global attention as the Premier League or Champions League, it maintains strong domestic interest and continues to provide a valuable pathway to European competition for its winners.\n\n## Interesting Facts\n\nNumerous Football League Cup facts demonstrate the tournament's unique character and historical significance. It was one of the first competitions to regularly utilize floodlit midweek matches, contributing to the atmospheric night games that have become a hallmark of English football.\n\nThe Football League Cup interesting history includes instances of lower-league teams reaching advanced stages of the competition. Bradford City's journey to the final in 2013 as a fourth-tier team represents one of the most remarkable cup runs in English football history.\n\nAmong the most Football League Cup interesting stories is how the competition transformed from an initially dismissed addition to the football calendar to an established trophy that all clubs actively pursue. This evolution reflects broader changes in football's commercial development and the increasing importance of securing any available silverware in the modern era.\n\nThe competition has also served as a launching pad for many young players who received their first significant exposure in Football League Cup matches before going on to achieve stardom in the sport.","active":true,"short_code":null,"category":2,"top_position":null,"stb_internal_id":"0192f732-1697-7ce9-923d-a430e924322d","overrides":null,"has_article_relations":false,"has_social_media_relations":false,"inactive":null,"description_html":"

Football League Cup

Introduction

The Football League Cup stands as one of the most prestigious domestic cup competitions in English football. Commonly referred to as the EFL Cup due to its sponsorship by the English Football League, this knockout tournament occupies a significant position in the country's football hierarchy. Though it ranks below the FA Cup in terms of historical prestige, the Football League Cup football competition has carved out its own unique identity in the footballing landscape of England.

Established as the third most important domestic competition after the Premier League and FA Cup, the Football League Cup statistics reveal its enduring popularity among fans and clubs alike. The tournament provides an alternative route to European qualification, offering the winner a place in the UEFA Conference League, which further enhances its appeal among participating teams.

History

The Football League Cup history dates back to 1960 when it was founded by Alan Hardaker, who served as Secretary of the Football League at that time. The Football League Cup creation emerged from practical considerations – primarily to provide additional midweek fixtures for clubs that faced early elimination from the FA Cup and to generate additional revenue through increased gate receipts.

The Football League Cup development has seen numerous format changes throughout its existence. During its early years (1960-1966), finals were contested over two legs, but this changed in the 1966-67 season when the final was moved to Wembley Stadium, significantly elevating the tournament's status.

Initially, the competition faced resistance from some of England's top clubs, who viewed it as an unnecessary addition to their already congested schedules. However, the Football League Cup history took a significant turn when a UEFA Cup (now UEFA Europa League) place was awarded to the winner from the 1971-72 season onwards. This development dramatically increased participation from elite teams, solidifying the tournament's importance in English football.

Aston Villa claimed the inaugural trophy in the 1960-61 season, marking the beginning of what would become a storied competition in English football.

Competition Format

The Football League Cup format embraces inclusivity, with all 92 clubs from the Premier League and English Football League eligible to participate. The Football League Cup rules establish a progressive knockout structure consisting of seven rounds, culminating in a showpiece final at Wembley Stadium.

The Football League Cup tournament begins with lower-league teams entering in the first round. Premier League clubs not involved in European competitions join in the second round, while those participating in European tournaments enter at the third round stage. This staggered entry system creates opportunities for smaller clubs to progress before facing elite opposition.

One of the distinctive Football League Cup rules involves the structure of matches. All fixtures are decided in single-legged ties, with the exception of the semi-finals, which are played over two legs. In case of a draw after regular time, matches proceed directly to penalty shootouts without extra time (except in the final), adding to the excitement and unpredictability of the competition.

Famous Teams

Throughout its history, several Football League Cup teams have established themselves as particularly successful in this competition. Liverpool stands as the most decorated club in Football League Cup history, having accumulated more titles than any other team. Their dominance in this tournament has contributed significantly to their overall trophy cabinet.

Other Football League Cup clubs with impressive records include Manchester City, who achieved remarkable dominance in recent years under Pep Guardiola's management. Aston Villa, Manchester United, Chelsea, and Tottenham Hotspur also feature prominently among the Football League Cup winners.

The competition has witnessed several notable rivalries played out in memorable finals. The North London derby between Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur has produced some thrilling encounters, while matches between Liverpool and Manchester United never fail to generate excitement regardless of the competition.

Statistics and Records

The Football League Cup records showcase the tournament's rich history and competitive nature. Liverpool holds the distinction of winning the most titles, demonstrating their historical commitment to this competition despite its perceived secondary status.

In terms of Football League Cup statistics, the tournament has provided a platform for numerous goal-scoring feats. The competition has witnessed remarkable \"giant-killing\" moments where lower-division teams have toppled Premier League giants, creating some of the most memorable upsets in English football.

Many Football League Cup players have etched their names in the competition's folklore through outstanding individual performances. The tournament's history features numerous hat-tricks, spectacular goals, and heroic goalkeeping displays that have decided the outcome of crucial matches.

Manchester City's recent period of dominance represents another significant Football League Cup record, highlighting how seriously top clubs now take this competition despite its humble beginnings.

Current State

The present Football League Cup season maintains the traditional format that has evolved over decades. The competition continues to involve all 92 professional clubs in the English football pyramid, with the same progressive entry system based on league status and European commitments.

Despite occasional debates about its relevance in an increasingly congested football calendar, the Football League Cup today remains highly valued by clubs for several reasons. For top teams, it represents an opportunity to secure silverware relatively early in the season and provides valuable playing time for squad players and promising youth talents. For smaller clubs, it offers the chance to test themselves against elite opposition and potentially generate significant revenue through memorable cup runs.

The Football League Cup overview in modern football shows that while it may not command the same global attention as the Premier League or Champions League, it maintains strong domestic interest and continues to provide a valuable pathway to European competition for its winners.

Interesting Facts

Numerous Football League Cup facts demonstrate the tournament's unique character and historical significance. It was one of the first competitions to regularly utilize floodlit midweek matches, contributing to the atmospheric night games that have become a hallmark of English football.

The Football League Cup interesting history includes instances of lower-league teams reaching advanced stages of the competition. Bradford City's journey to the final in 2013 as a fourth-tier team represents one of the most remarkable cup runs in English football history.

Among the most Football League Cup interesting stories is how the competition transformed from an initially dismissed addition to the football calendar to an established trophy that all clubs actively pursue. This evolution reflects broader changes in football's commercial development and the increasing importance of securing any available silverware in the modern era.

The competition has also served as a launching pad for many young players who received their first significant exposure in Football League Cup matches before going on to achieve stardom in the sport.

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Jean-Ricner Bellegarde: Profile