Reading vs AFC Wimbledon EFL Cup 2025: Where to Watch and Who’s Commentating on talkSPORT

Tonight at 7:00pm UK time on August 26, 2025, the English League Cup (EFL Cup) second-round tie between Reading and AFC Wimbledon kicks off at Select Car Leasing Stadium in Reading. The match will be broadcast live on talkSPORT, a premier destination for football commentary and live sports radio in the UK.

Ian Abrahams will be the on-site reporter for talkSPORT, providing updates, interviews, and sideline insights throughout the game. Abrahams is highly regarded in British football broadcasting circles, known for his in-depth reporting style and expert analysis, which adds significant value to live football coverage.

The EFL Cup, currently branded as the Carabao Cup for sponsorship reasons, is a knock-out competition featuring 92 clubs from the Premier League and English Football League tiers. Major UK broadcasters such as ITV, Sky Sports, and BBC typically share coverage rights for different stages of the tournament, but tonight's match is exclusively on talkSPORT, catering to fans who prefer live audio commentary and expert reporting.

Match Details and Context

Reading host AFC Wimbledon in a match crucial for progressing beyond the second round. Reading come into the fixture seeking redemption after a recent loss in League One to the same opponents, who have been in strong form against them. AFC Wimbledon hold a psychological edge, having won the last three encounters against Reading.

Reading's home ground, the Select Car Leasing Stadium, promises a lively atmosphere with passionate support backing the home side. The game is scheduled to start at 7pm BST (6pm UTC), giving supporters ample opportunity to settle in for an evening of competitive cup football.

About the Commentators and Presenters

Ian Abrahams has built a reputable career covering lower league and cup football. His previous work includes covering the FA Cup, EFL Championship, and Premier League matches across multiple media platforms. Abrahams’ skill lies in his ability to blend tactical knowledge with accessible commentary, making matches engaging for both hardcore fans and casual listeners.

talkSPORT itself is well-known for its high-calibre lineups of presenters and commentators. The station covers a broad range of football competitions including the Premier League, Champions League, and various domestic knock-out tournaments like the EFL Cup. Its coverage often features respected pundits, former players, and football analysts who add depth and insight during and after the games.

How to Follow the Match

The live broadcast is available via talkSPORT's radio channels and online streaming services, allowing fans across the UK to tune in on radio, desktop or mobile devices. For those who prefer more visual content, live updates, team news, and minute-by-minute blogs of the match are also accessible via reputable online outlets such as The Independent. Additionally, comprehensive statistics and live scores can be tracked on platforms like Sofascore or FotMob, which provide in-depth match analytics such as shots, possession, and player ratings.

Background on Teams and Competition

Reading and AFC Wimbledon have a competitive recent history, with Wimbledon currently enjoying a slight upper hand having won several recent matches including an away League One encounter earlier in August 2025. This match offers Reading an opportunity to turn the tide on home soil in a coveted cup competition that also offers qualification routes to European tournaments for successful teams.

The EFL Cup final is set for March 22, 2026, at Wembley Stadium, providing an additional incentive for clubs to perform well early in the competition.

For more information on the tournament, visit the official English Football League Cup site.

Fans are encouraged to follow talkSPORT and mainstream outlets as the game progresses to catch expert analysis and comprehensive reporting from Ian Abrahams and the talkSPORT team.