Wigan Athletic vs Blackpool prediction 22.09.2026 | EFL Trophy

Wigan return to EFL Trophy action after a narrow 1:0 home defeat against Wycombe Wanderers on Saturday.

Gary Caldwell’s side struggled to create clear opportunities during a disappointing contest at The Brick Community Stadium. Dan Casey scored the only goal as Wycombe secured a fine road victory.

Last weekend's defeat leaves the Latics at the bottom of the League One standings. Wigan have won only one of their last four league fixtures, losing against Stockport and Wycombe before drawing at Sheffield Wednesday.

Goals have been a significant concern for Caldwell’s men. Wigan failed to score in three of their previous four matches, although a 3:1 victory against MK Dons offered a glimpse of their attacking potential.

The hosts made a more convincing start to their EFL Trophy campaign, securing a 3:2 victory against Aston Villa U21 in August.

Caldwell is expected to rotate his squad following Saturday’s league fixture. Joe Walsh, Akeel Higgins and K’Marni Miller could return after starting the victory against Villa’s youngsters.

Blackpool make the short journey to Wigan after suffering a disappointing 4:2 defeat against Plymouth Argyle at Bloomfield Road on Saturday.

Jordan Brown fired the Seasiders into a first-half lead before Plymouth responded with three unanswered goals. Jerry Yates reduced the deficit, but Aribim Pepple’s late strike completed a deserved victory for the visitors.

Saturday’s defeats extended Blackpool’s winless run to four league matches. Ian Evatt’s side also lost against Barnsley and Reading before claiming a 2:2 draw against Bromley.

Coming into this week’s fixture, Blackpool have lost four and won only one of six previous fixtures.

While the Seasiders have offered a consistent attacking threat, their defensive record remains a concern. Blackpool scored in each of their seven league fixtures this season but conceded 13 goals.

All four of their previous matches finished with both teams scoring, while three saw at least four match goals.

Tuesday’s contest is Blackpool’s first EFL Trophy fixture of the campaign. The Seasiders will also face Crewe Alexandra and Aston Villa U21 in their remaining Northern Group B matches.

Evatt is likely to make several changes following Saturday’s demanding league encounter. Luke Southwood, Andy Lyons, Leighton Clarkson and Dion Charles are among those who could earn recalls to the first XI.

No fresh injury concerns have been confirmed ahead of the trip to Wigan.