Newcastle United secured a 3-2 victory over West Bromwich Albion at St James’ Park on August 26 to advance to the third round of the League Cup. Harvey Barnes played a pivotal role, scoring twice after coming off the bench as the Premier League side overcame an early deficit against their Championship opponents.

West Brom took the lead in the 19th minute through Isaac Price, who struck a curling free kick that goalkeeper Ewen Jaouen was unable to save. Newcastle responded before halftime when new signing Bazoumana Toure netted an equalizer in the 38th minute. Shortly after the break, Barnes put the hosts ahead with a close-range finish. However, the lead was short-lived after Lewis Hall was penalized for a handball in the 76th minute, allowing Price to convert the resulting penalty and draw West Brom level. Hall nearly redeemed himself by hitting the post, but Barnes sealed the win with his second goal in the 81st minute.

Before kickoff, Newcastle introduced Spanish midfielder Nico Gonzalez to their fans following his £52 million transfer from Manchester City.

Elsewhere, Everton continued their strong form in the competition with a 4-0 win over Championship side Preston North End at Deepdale. Thiemo Barry scored a hat-trick, his first for the Toffees, with goals in the 25th, 59th, and 70th minutes. Brennan Johnson contributed the fourth in the match.

Tottenham Hotspur also advanced comfortably, defeating League One visitors Charlton Athletic 5-1 in North London. After a difficult Premier League start with a loss at Brentford, Spurs took control by halftime with goals from Mickey Moore and Dominic Solanke. Kevin Danso, debutant Savinho, and Ben Davies added further goals in the second half before Lloyd Jones scored a consolation for Charlton.

In other cup action, League One side Bradford City eliminated Championship club Burnley in a penalty shootout after a scoreless 90 minutes and extra time. Nottingham Forest were the only Premier League team to exit in this round, having lost 2-0 to Leeds United in their all-top-flight fixture on August 25.

This phase marked the second round of the League Cup, the entry point for Premier League clubs not competing in European tournaments. The remaining nine top-flight sides will join the competition in the third round.