This Monday, the worlds of Hollywood and football collide on the pitch in a showdown that has everyone talking. On one side, you’ve got Wrexham AFC, the Welsh underdog club revived by movie stars Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, riding high after back-to-back promotions. On the other, NFL legend Tom Brady’s Birmingham City FC, a club with a chip on its shoulder, fighting to reclaim its glory after a tough relegation from the Championship. This isn’t just a match—it’s the birth of a new rivalry with big names, big stakes, and big ambitions.

Birmingham, bolstered by Brady’s recent investment, is hungry to prove it can rise again. They’ve been climbing their way back, just three points behind Wrexham and with a game in hand. Meanwhile, Wrexham has been nothing short of a fairy tale, topping the table under the leadership of Jacy Marriott, showing the world that they’re more than just a celebrity project—they’re the real deal.

Fans may be disappointed the match isn’t taking place in the States, but the intensity is still sky-high. With so much on the line, including pride, points, and this budding rivalry, all eyes will be on this clash to see which side of the story shines brightest.

Wrexham vs Birmingham City: What to Expect?

Injury news

Wrexham: It appears that the Red Dragons could have asked for a better situation. The Hollywood owner’s club has no concerns about injuries and will go to their full strength. There was a slight worry about Paul Mullin who returned after after a long time suffering a back issue. The striker was subbed off in the 65th minute against Salford but the coach confirmed that there wasn’t any injury.

Birmingham City: Meanwhile, Brady’s team has quite a few players ruled out. Midfielder Lee Buchanan suffered a calf injury before the season and is expected to make his way back into training this month. Moreover, the loanee from Fulham Luke Harris, and defender Ethan Laird will also be out due to calf injuries. On a positive note, winger Keshi Anderson is back in training and could be back on Monday after suffering a blow in the Carabao Cup. However, whether he would start remains a doubt.

Expected Lineups

Wrexham: Arthur Okonkwo; Ryan Barnett, Max Cleworth, Eoghan O’Connell, Thomas O’Connell; James McClean; Andy Cannon, George Dobson, Elliot Lee; Paul Mullin, Ollie Palmer

Birmingham City: Bailey Peacock-Farrell; Taylor Gardner-Hickman, Christoff Klarer, Krystian Bielik, Alex Cochrane; Sueng-ho Paik, Tomoki Iwata; Scott Wright, Jay Stansfield, Emil Hansson; Alfie May

Head to Head

Both teams did not have many opportunities to face each other as they played in different leagues. But locking horns six times in history, Birmingham has the edge with 3 wins and 2 losses with one ending in a draw. The last time these two met was in 2006 when the English team won 4:1.

When and where to watch the match live

The match will kick-off at St Andrew’s in Birmingham, UK on Monday, September 16, 2024, at 1500 hrs ET/ 1200 hrs PST. Fans can watch the game live on CBS Sports Network.