Everton manager David Moyes secured a 4-0 Carabao Cup win against Preston on August 26, 2026, advancing the Toffees to a third-round fixture against Wolves, as Thierno Barry netted a hat-trick and Brennan Johnson contributed a goal and an assist at Deepdale.
The Carabao Cup third-round draw delivered a packed slate of fixtures across English football, with eleven Premier League teams entering the competition in the second round alongside defending champions Manchester City and last year’s runner-up Arsenal (the tournament’s entry structure). Prior to the draw itself, a pre-draw separated eight Premier League clubs participating in European competitions to prevent clashes with UEFA tournaments (the governing body’s seeding protocol). Matches for the third round are scheduled to take place across two weeks starting September 7 and September 14.
Thierno Barry’s Hat-Trick Propels Everton Past Preston
At Deepdale, Everton dismantled Preston 4-0 in a performance that left David Moyes satisfied, though the manager maintained that his squad requires significant reinforcement (the manager’s post-match assessment). Thierno Barry led the charge with three goals, earning the match ball and praise from his manager, who emphasized the striker’s development (the team’s attacking output).
“I say this season needs to be mine. I try a lot this summer for that so I’m very happy to score my first hat-trick with Everton. I work a lot for that, I’m very happy, my team-mates helped me a lot also.”
Thierno Barry, Everton forward, via The Independent
Moyes noted that adapting to the Premier League is rarely straightforward for incoming centre-forwards, but credited Barry’s improved attitude for his output against Preston (the club’s coaching evaluation). Still, the Toffees boss stressed that further additions are necessary before the window closes.
“More players. Our squad’s not big enough. We need to get more quality in some areas if we can do.”
David Moyes, Everton manager, via The Independent
Brennan Johnson Settles In After Unusual Transfer
Brennan Johnson added a goal and an assist to his tally during the victory, continuing his integration following a high-profile swap move over the summer (the player’s performance review). Moyes explained that the coaching staff is intentionally easing the forward into match action to recapture his previous scoring form at Tottenham (the managerial approach).
“We want to find what he did at Tottenham when he was scoring all those goals. His assist was a brilliant assist and his finish as well. The people who’ve watched Brennan over the years would tell you that looks a bit more like him… we don’t want to bring him on too quick we want to sort of introduce him but he’s done well when he’s come on tonight.”
Photo: The Independent
David Moyes, Everton manager, via The Independent
Johnson echoed that sentiment after the final whistle, expressing relief at contributing directly to the scoresheet (the player’s post-match comments). He credited his new teammates with helping him settle quickly on Merseyside.
“When I came here, all the lads were so good with me, made me feel really welcome and I think it helps to play with confidence on the pitch, so big shoutout to the boys. I feel comfortable already and I’m loving life.”
Brennan Johnson, Everton forward, via The Independent
Newcastle Progress as Barnes Targets a Deep Run
Elsewhere in second-round action, Harvey Barnes powered Newcastle United past West Brom with two goals in a 3-2 victory (the match outcome). Speaking after the fixture, Barnes outlined the squad’s ambitions for the tournament (the player’s post-match interview).
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“A few of the older players that are here have that, that taste of glory, that’s what we want. The manager has had some success in his career and he wants that as well, that is why he has come here so there’s a real emphasis on that. The ultimate goal is to go all the way.”
Harvey Barnes, Newcastle United player, via The Independent
Third Round Slate Takes Shape
With the second round concluding with remaining fixtures on Thursday, August 27, when Chelsea hosts Luton Town and Fulham faces Wimbledon (the tournament schedule), the path ahead for advancing clubs is clear. Everton will face Wolves in the next round (the third-round pairing), while other high-profile fixtures include Liverpool meeting Tottenham (the competition draw) and Ipswich Town hosting the Premier League champions at Portman Road (the upcoming fixture list).
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Luis is a respected sports journalist with several national writing awards. He covers major leagues, global tournaments, and athlete profiles, blending analysis with captivating storytelling.
