Wednesday's EFL Cup first round predictions and odds: Colchester can claim Cardiff scalp

When to bet

Kick-offs from 7.45pm Wednesday

Best bets

Colchester to qualify
1pt 10-3 Betfair, Power

Bristol Rovers to qualify
1pt 10-3 Betfair, Power

EFL Cup first round predictions

The majority of Championship teams struggled in last season's EFL Cup with 16 falling at the first hurdle and there is scope for surprises in 2023-24 with Cardiff and Ipswich facing tricky home ties against Colchester and Bristol Rovers.

Many managers prefer to rest first-choice players for EFL Cup nights but there is no such dilemma for Colchester's Ben Garner.

Colchester were inactive at the weekend after heavy rain forced the postponement of their League Two fixture at home to Swindon and their players should be eager to impress on their delayed start to the campaign.

After a summer of significant squad strengthening, Colchester look primed to have a decent season in the fourth tier.

And they aren't without hope of troubling Cardiff, who began their Championship campaign on Sunday with a 2-2 draw at Leeds.

Cardiff acquitted themselves well at Elland Road but wholesale changes are expected for the visit of Colchester and the Bluebirds' second string may struggle against decent fourth-tier opposition.

Another surprise could be in store at Portman Road, where second-tier Ipswich take on League One Bristol Rovers.

Ipswich put in a big effort to win 2-1 at Sunderland on Sunday and their main focus this week will be on Saturday's Championship fixture at home to Stoke.

Several changes are on the cards for the Tractor Boys and that may open the door for Rovers, who have recruited well this summer and started the campaign with an encouraging 1-1 draw at Portsmouth.

Sign up to emails from Racing Post Sport and get all the latest news and tips

Today's top sports betting stories

Follow us on Twitter @racingpostsport