Cardiff City Edges Past Wrexham in Epic EFL Cup Showdown

** Cardiff City secured their spot in the EFL Cup quarterfinals thanks to goals from Yousef Salech and Will Fish in a thrilling 2-1 victory over Wrexham. **

By Chris Posiano

October 29, 2025 at 2:08 AM

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In a highly anticipated Welsh derby, Cardiff City emerged victorious with a 2-1 win over Wrexham at the Racecourse Ground, securing their place in the EFL Cup quarterfinals. The Bluebirds' goals from Yousef Salech and Will Fish proved to be the difference in this tightly contested match.

The visitors took an early lead through Salech, who tapped in from close range in the 13th minute, marking his sixth goal of the season across all competitions. Cardiff had several opportunities to extend their lead in the first half, with Omari Kellyman, Rubin Colwill, and Cian Ashford all coming close, but Wrexham's goalkeeper Callum Burton stood firm.

Wrexham's Kieffer Moore leveled the score seven minutes into the second half with a headed goal, capitalizing on a deflected cross from Ryan Longman. However, Cardiff's Will Fish restored their lead in the 71st minute with a stunning volley, beating Burton at the near post to secure the win and his first goal for the club. This victory marks Cardiff's first appearance in the EFL Cup quarterfinals since the 2011-12 season, when they reached the final.

Cardiff dominated possession from the start, but Wrexham had the first clear chance through Nathan Broadhead, who shot wide. The home side's slow start was epitomized when George Thomason was dispossessed, allowing Rubin Colwill to set up Kellyman, whose shot was saved by Burton. Salech was quickest to react and tapped home the rebound to give Cardiff the lead.

Wrexham's goalkeeper Burton was instrumental in keeping his side in the game, making several crucial saves, including denying Kellyman and tipping Ashford's powerful shot onto the crossbar. Rubin Colwill also hit the woodwork with a free-kick, but Wrexham struggled to create clear-cut chances in the first half.

Wrexham showed more intent in the second half, with Phil Parkinson making three substitutions at halftime. Moore's header pulled Wrexham level, but Cardiff's resilience and individual brilliance from Fish ensured they held on for the victory. Despite Wrexham's late efforts, Cardiff's defense held firm, and they progressed to the last eight of the EFL Cup, delighting the 1,249 away fans in attendance.