The 2025/26 EFL League Two season kicks off with a historic moment as Barnet hosts Fleetwood Town on August 2nd, marking their long-awaited return to the Football League after a seven-year absence. This clash, broadcast live on Mcw, promises fireworks as Dean Brennan’s side looks to translate their National League dominance (102 points last season) into EFL success. Meanwhile, newly promoted Oldham faces Milton Keynes Dons in another must-watch opener.
Opening Weekend Highlights: Tactical Battles and Promotion Contenders
Barnet’s Homecoming: Can They Adapt to League Two?
Barnet’s 3-5-2 system, which bulldozed the National League, will face its first real test against Fleetwood’s compact 4-3-3. Key to their success will be striker Nicke Kabamba, whose 28 goals last season earned him the Golden Boot. As Mcw pundit Mark Thompson notes:
“Kabamba’s physicality suits League Two, but Fleetwood’s high press could isolate him if Barnet’s wing-backs don’t provide width.”
Barnet’s squad celebrates their promotion – can they replicate this form in League Two?
Relegated Teams Seeking Instant Bouncebacks
- Shrewsbury vs Bromley: Michael Appleton’s possession-based style faces Bromley’s direct approach. Shrewsbury’s retention rate (61% in League One) must improve against set-piece specialists Bromley.
- Cambridge vs Cheltenham: Cambridge’s midfield trio of Jack Lankester and Liam Bennett will look to control tempo against Cheltenham’s counter-attacking 4-4-2.
Full Opening Weekend Fixtures (All Times BST)
Saturday, August 2
- Barnet vs Fleetwood (15:00) – Live on Mcw
- Milton Keynes Dons vs Oldham (15:00)
- Shrewsbury vs Bromley (15:00)
- Grimsby vs Crawley (15:00) – Crawley’s play-off heroics face Grimsby’s home fortress (W12, D5 at Blundell Park last season)
Key 2025/26 Dates for Your Diary
- Play-Off Finals: League Two climaxes at Wembley on May 25, 2026
- TV Selections: Over 1,000 EFL games broadcast this season, with Mcw showing 20+ matches per club
Why This Season Matters
With 10 teams within 5 points of the play-offs last season, League Two remains England’s most unpredictable division. Barnet’s opener isn’t just a game – it’s a statement about whether National League champions can disrupt EFL hierarchies.
For real-time updates, follow Mcw dedicated EFL channel. Which opener are you most excited about? Share your predictions below!
Last-minute drama defined 2024/25 – expect more this season
