Prediction Grimsby Town vs Doncaster Rovers 2025/2026 season – Betting Tips for the EFL Trophy on 07/10/2025

A lively cup clash at Blundell Park

The EFL Trophy returns to Blundell Park on 07/10/2025 with Grimsby Town hosting Doncaster Rovers in a Northern Group Stage tie that promises edge-of-the-seat moments. Grimsby arrive with a mixed run of results but some eye-catching scorelines in recent weeks, while Doncaster carry clear attacking numbers from their most recent outings. With group positions already tilted in Doncaster’s favour and both teams eager to pick up momentum in a short group phase, this is a match where momentum and match-day performance will matter more than season-long narratives.

Form and recent meetings

Grimsby’s recent form reads like a rollercoaster: five wins, two draws and three defeats in their latest string, and a particularly emphatic 7-1 victory on 27 September stands out. They followed that with a solid 2-0 league victory away at Salford, where Charles Vernam earned best player honours. Despite those highs, their group campaign has begun poorly — one match played, one defeat, and no points. Doncaster, meanwhile, sit second in the group after opening with a 2-1 group victory and enter this clash after a 1-1 draw with Burton Albion. James Maxwell was the standout in that draw, and Doncaster’s recent form summary highlights a team that has been capable of stringing results together when it matters.

Statistical edge and match-up

The numbers tilt towards Doncaster on the attacking side. In the available snapshot, Doncaster’s match metrics show 20 total shots with seven on target in their most recent display, compared to Grimsby’s four total shots and two on target. Doncaster’s ability to generate more meaningful attempts inside the box and create dangerous attacks signals a team likely to trouble Grimsby’s defence. Head-to-head history adds a twist — Grimsby won the February meeting 2-1 away at Doncaster — but that result doesn’t negate the current statistical momentum favouring the visitors.

Betting suggestion

Based on the clear attacking metrics for Doncaster, their current standing in the group and recent competitive displays, the best single-market pick here is a 1X2 away win: Doncaster Rovers to win.