Spurs look to avoid an upset at home
Tottenham Hotspur host Doncaster Rovers in the Carabao Cup third round tonight, with Thomas Frank’s side heavy favourites to progress. Spurs were frustrated at the weekend, throwing away a 2–0 lead in a dramatic 2–2 draw with Brighton, while Doncaster come into this after a narrow 2–1 defeat to AFC Wimbledon in League One.
For Spurs, this fixture provides an opportunity to rotate the squad and regain momentum, but Doncaster will view it as a free hit to test themselves against Premier League opposition.
What time does Tottenham vs Doncaster kick off?
- Date: Wednesday 24 September, 2025
- Kick-off time: 21:45 EAT / 19:45 BST
- Venue: Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, London
Tottenham vs Doncaster: Last Result
Tottenham
- Brighton 2–2 Tottenham (Premier League)
Doncaster
- Doncaster 1–2 AFC Wimbledon (League One)
Tottenham vs Doncaster head-to-head record
These two sides have rarely crossed paths, with Tottenham holding the upper hand historically. Spurs have won comfortably in previous cup encounters, and Doncaster have never beaten the London club in competitive football.
Team News
Tottenham
Postecoglou is expected to rotate heavily. Richarlison could start again after scoring against Brighton, while Brennan Johnson may also feature. Youngsters like Archie Gray and Mathys Tel could get minutes.
Predicted Spurs lineup:
Vicario; Porro, Romero, van de Ven, Udogie; Palhinha, Bentancur; Kudus, Bergvall, Saka; Richarlison.
Doncaster
Grant McCann’s side will likely stick with the 4-3-3 used against Wimbledon. Veteran striker Billy Sharp is expected to lead the line, while Owen Bailey — scorer last weekend — will feature in midfield.
Predicted Doncaster lineup:
Lo-Tutala; Sterry, O’Riordan, McGrath, Maxwell; Bailey, Broadbent, Crew; Molyneux, Sharp, Gibson.
Prediction
Tottenham will be expected to dominate possession and create plenty of chances, while Doncaster may look to frustrate and counter through Sharp and Molyneux. Spurs’ quality in depth should see them through comfortably, but cup football always carries the risk of an upset.
Prediction: Tottenham 3–0 Doncaster
