In just a month’s time, Wrexham AFC will finally kick off its 2024/25 season. Putting aside the intense anticipation for their fresh League One campaign, the Welsh club will also have the opportunity to pursue EFL Carabao Cup glory. In fact, their very first opponent has been revealed as Ryan Reynolds and Co. will be facing Sheffield United in the first round. To everyone’s interest, this opponent turns out to be a rather familiar side, as ardent fans are urging Wrexham to seek redemption.
The fixture will be played on August 12, 2024, at Bramall Lane, with details regarding the tickets and other travel details yet to be revealed in the coming weeks, as stated on the club’s website. Remarkably, the Red Dragons reached the second round of the competition last year after defeating Wigan Athletic on penalties, eventually exiting from the tournament in the very same against Bradford City.
Interestingly, this is Phil Parkinson and Co.’s second trip to Bramall Lane, having faced the Blades two years ago in the 2022/23 FA Cup fourth round. Wrexham had managed to make it that far by defeating the likes of Byth Spartans in the qualifying round, Oldham Athletic in the first, Farnborough in the second and Coventry in the third round.
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Surprisingly, Wrexham had given Sheffield tough competition at the STōK Cae Ras, holding them 3-3. However, in the replay rounds—which won’t be played from this season—the Welsh side were thrashed 3-1 by Chris Wilder’s side, pouring cold water on their FA Cup dream. However, Wrexham now has a perfect chance to take revenge for their defeat in the opening fixture of the Carabao Cup and the fans are unable to contain their excitement.
Fans urging Wrexham to seek their FA Cup payback against Sheffield United in the Carabao Cup!
After Wrexham shared their opponent’s details regarding the Carabao Cup first round, ardent Red Dragon supporters have ignited a fire among themselves. They have taken over X, formerly Twitter, to urge Phil Parkinson and Co. to get their FA Cup revenge.
Of course, facing Sheffield is what makes the opening fixture interesting. Without a doubt, the Championship side would be keen to keep up their unbeaten record against Wrexham. However, this supporter is optimistic for the Welsh club to make things right this time.
Bring it back pic.twitter.com/OpJPZ8k3s5
— Zach (@Zach698) June 27, 2024
Tensions flared high the last time these two sides met. Aside from the on-pitch intensity, supporters of both STōK Cae Ras and Bramall Lane made things difficult for their respective rivals. While this time is expected to be no different, one netizen has urged Wrexham to use it as motivation.
👀 Well that is going to be a spicy one! Let's remember how they behaved when we last faced them and use that as fuel!
— Daniel Sides (@welshinema) June 27, 2024
It will be just the start of the season when Wrexham faces Sheffield. Certainly, it’s a big game for Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney-backed club, and “revenge” is the only word on the minds of fans.
Massive game, hopefully get some revenge.
— Ryan (@R_FPL_Watcher) June 27, 2024
The last time Wrexham faced Sheffield United, both of their keepers, Rob Lainton and Mark Howard, had opportunities to make crucial saves, but neither could come through. This time, Phil Parkinson can count on Arthur Okonkwo, who was signed permanently by Reynolds.
Good Testing for Our New Goalkeeper
— sportie (@sportyreg) June 27, 2024
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Billy Sharp, ring any bells Wrexham fans? He was one of the players who caused trouble for the Red Dragons. Besides scoring in the first match, the striker had a confrontation with the Welsh club’s supporters. However, this time, Sharp will be notably absent, having left Sheffield and returned to his former club, Doncaster Rovers.
Shame Sharpe isn’t there now 🙄😂
— Gareth🏴 (@LfcSince) June 27, 2024
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Overall, an exciting match is anticipated between both sides. It remains to be seen if Wrexham can achieve the revenge their fans are hoping for.