Wrexham Achieves The Third Round Of Carabao Cup For The First Time In 44 Years

Wrexham (red) made history in the Carabao Cup (Instagram/@wrexham_afc).

JAKARTA - Kieffer Moore came off the bench, becoming an important actor in a dramatic win in stoppage time for Wrexham as they beat Preston North End 3-2 at Carabao Cup 2025/2026.

The 33-year-old took advantage of JackUR's mistake in injury time to bring the Wales team to the Premier League Cup Third Round for the first time since 1981.

"It's about learning and we deserve to be at this level. Okay, it's a cup game, but they're a very good Championship team."

"I want to see us play with a little confidence and accept that we deserve to be on this stage. We have shown it tonight," said Wrexham manager Phil Parkinson, after the match, Wednesday, August 27, 2025, local time.

Lewis Dobbin's debutant opened the scoring for Preston after seven minutes before Ryan Hardie's sensational equalizer.

Preston's home side regained their lead just in the 29th minute through Liam Lindsay, but Harry Ashfield equalized again just before an hour of the game.

"He (Ashfield) deserves to be around the squad because he trains well every day with quality and he's a great kid."

"He fought back at Devine, who is highly valued, a highly respected young player, and I said, it was a tough test for him tonight."

"After that, the press will talk about Harry Ashfield, notELLOW Devine," says Parkinson.

Preston had to hold on to a few periods, but almost took the lead again in the 85th minute when substitute Michael Smith's curling shot forced Okonkwo to make an important save. However, Wrexham won in stoppage time.

The victory made history for Wrexham. For the first time in 44 years they managed to reach the Third Round of the English League Cup.

Next, Wrexham will meet the League One (third vision) team, Reading. The Championship team was also over the wind to advance to the round of 16.