Spurs vs Charlton: Breaking League Cup Line-ups Revealed

Image Source: BBC

Spurs vs Charlton is set to headline Wednesday evening’s League Cup action, with Tottenham Hotspur welcoming Charlton Athletic to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium for a second-round tie. Kick-off is scheduled for 19:45 UK time on 26 August 2026.

The match is yet to begin, with the latest live update confirming that both teams have been announced and players are warming up. Tottenham will start as the higher-profile side, but Charlton arrive with confidence after a positive run of results in their recent competitive fixtures.

Spurs vs Charlton line-ups revealed for League Cup clash

Tottenham manager Roberto De Zerbi has selected a 4-3-3 formation for the home side. A. Kinský starts in goal, while Destiny Udogie, Ben Davies, Jan van Hecke and Archie Gray form the defensive line.

The midfield includes Mateus Fernandes, Rodrigo Bentancur and Lucas Bergvall. Tottenham’s attacking trio is made up of Mikey Moore, Dominic Solanke and Mathys Tel, giving Spurs a blend of youthful energy and established attacking quality.

Charlton manager Nathan Jones has opted for a 4-2-3-1 system. T. Brooks starts in goal, with N. Asiimwe, I. Mesík, B. Koumetio and C. Sichenje selected across the back four.

T. Ouma and H. Knibbs provide the visitors’ midfield cover. R. Apter, G. Docherty and M. Alli are positioned behind striker M. Mbick, who will lead Charlton’s attack at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

Tottenham’s attacking options promise an explosive test

Tottenham’s starting XI suggests an emphasis on movement and attacking width. Moore and Tel are expected to support Solanke from the flanks, while Bergvall and Mateus Fernandes could help drive the game forward from midfield.

Solanke will be one of the key players to watch. His ability to link play and occupy defenders may be especially important if Charlton adopt a compact shape. Tel and Moore, meanwhile, offer pace and unpredictability in one-on-one situations.

Spurs also have significant options on the bench. Richarlison, Sávio, Pedro Porro, Micky van de Ven and Conor Gallagher are among the substitutes available to De Zerbi should the contest require a change in tempo.

Charlton seek another cup upset

Charlton have named a squad capable of making the match uncomfortable for their Premier League opponents. Jones’ side will look to remain organised without the ball before attempting to exploit spaces on the counter-attack.

Mbick’s positioning could be central to that approach, while Alli, Docherty and Apter are expected to provide creativity behind him. If Charlton can withstand Tottenham’s early pressure, the visitors may grow into the contest and create a tense cup atmosphere.

The Addicks have enjoyed several encouraging results recently. Their form guide includes victories over West Ham United, Derby County, Cheltenham Town and Colchester United, although they also suffered a 3-0 defeat by Reading in a recent friendly fixture.

Recent form and head-to-head record

Tottenham’s latest competitive result was a 3-0 Premier League defeat by Brentford. Spurs also drew 2-2 with Hoffenheim in a club friendly before beating the same opponent 3-0 and defeating Chelsea 2-1 in the Sydney Super Cup.

The historical head-to-head record favours Tottenham. Spurs beat Charlton 3-0 in the FA Cup on 9 January 2011, while their most recent Premier League meetings ended in a 2-0 Tottenham victory in May 2007 and a 5-1 Spurs win in December 2006.

However, those previous meetings are now more than a decade old and offer limited insight into Wednesday’s tie. The League Cup presents a fresh opportunity for both clubs, with Tottenham seeking progress and Charlton hoping to produce a memorable result against stronger opposition.

Match officials and what to expect

Adam Herczeg has been appointed referee, with Timothy Wood and Alistair Nelson serving as assistant referees. Abigail Byrne is the fourth official.

At the time of the latest update, all match statistics remained at zero because kick-off had not taken place. Possession, shots, shots on target, saves, fouls and corners will be recorded once the game begins.

• Fixture: Tottenham Hotspur v Charlton Athletic
• Competition: League Cup, second round
• Date: Wednesday, 26 August 2026
• Kick-off: 19:45 UK time
• Venue: Tottenham Hotspur Stadium
• Referee: Adam Herczeg

The BBC match centre lists the fixture and confirmed line-ups, while noting that times and third-party content may be subject to change. With the teams now preparing to begin, attention turns to whether Tottenham’s attacking quality can deliver a comfortable victory or whether Charlton can force a dramatic League Cup upset.

Frequently asked questions

When is Spurs vs Charlton?

Spurs vs Charlton is scheduled for Wednesday, 26 August 2026, with kick-off at 19:45 UK time.

Where is Tottenham playing Charlton?

The match will take place at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, Tottenham’s home ground.

Who manages Tottenham and Charlton?

Tottenham are managed by Roberto De Zerbi, while Charlton Athletic are managed by Nathan Jones.

What formation will Tottenham use?

Tottenham will begin with a 4-3-3 formation, while Charlton have selected a 4-2-3-1 system.

Who is the referee?

Adam Herczeg is the referee, assisted by Timothy Wood and Alistair Nelson.