Huddersfield and Barnsley Battle in EFL Trophy Group Stage

Huddersfield Town and Barnsley are set to face off again in the EFL Trophy group stage after their recent clash in the Football League One. The match, scheduled for Tuesday evening at the John Smith's Stadium, marks their second encounter in just three days. Both teams are part of Northern Group F in the competition.

Their last meeting on Saturday saw Huddersfield secure a 2-0 victory against Barnsley, bringing an end to a four-game losing streak for Huddersfield in League One. Huddersfield, who were relegated from the Championship last season, currently sit ninth in the League One standings with 15 points from 10 matches. The team prioritizes their league campaign, suggesting significant lineup changes for the EFL Trophy match.

Conversely, Barnsley finished sixth in League One the previous season but fell short in the playoffs, where they lost to Bolton Wanderers. They are positioned tenth in the current League One table, also with 15 points. Like Huddersfield, Barnsley aims for league success, using the EFL Trophy to provide playing time for their fringe players. Despite starting their EFL Trophy journey with a 3-2 defeat against Manchester United Under-21s, they hope to improve against Huddersfield.

For Tuesday’s fixture, Huddersfield’s head coach, Michael Duff, is expected to make several changes, potentially fielding the same lineup used in their earlier EFL Trophy match against Doncaster Rovers. Barnsley is also likely to rotate their squad, giving opportunities to players like the 18-year-old who scored twice against Manchester United Under-21s.

Huddersfield and Barnsley have a recent history in various competitions, with Huddersfield holding a winning streak in their last three meetings. This includes a victory in the FA Cup in 2022. As both teams prepare for numerous changes from their last league meeting, Huddersfield will look to solidify their dominance over Barnsley and secure a win in the EFL Trophy.