USMNT's Josh Sargent nets for Norwich and Haji Wright assists for Coventry City as duo shine, advance in Carabao Cup

U.S. internationals Josh Sargent and Haji Wright delivered standout performances as the Carabao Cup kicked off Tuesday. Sargent opened the scoring for Norwich City in a 2-1 win over Watford, smashing home a low-driven effort in the first half for his second goal in as many games to start the 2025-26 season. Wright then set up Coventry City’s decisive strike in a 1-0 victory over Luton Town, whipping in a pinpoint cross for Ellis Simms to finish.

The 65th annual Carabao Cup saw several Americans in the English Championship take center stage, with members of the USMNT player pool making a strong early impression.

In other fixtures, striker Damion Downs earned his first start for Southampton and helped the Saints to a 1-0 win. Defender George Campbell also made his first start for West Brom following his midsummer transfer from CF Montreal, but his side was eliminated alongside striker Daryl Dike, who missed the match through injury.  Patrick Agyemang's Derby were the victors against the Baggies, with the forward still sidelined with an injury.  Midfielder Aidan Morris and Middlesbrough also exited the competition, as did Caleb Wiley and Watford.

Morris, who started and played 90 minutes at the weekend, began Tuesday’s match on the bench and came on in the 61st minute of a 4-0 defeat to Doncaster Rovers. Wiley was not named to the teamsheet for Watford.

Several USMNT players are yet to enter the competition, including Chris Richards (Crystal Palace), Tyler Adams (Bournemouth), and Antonee Robinson (Fulham).

The second weekend of the Championship arrives on Friday, with matches being played through Sunday, while the second round of the Carabao Cup begins in late August. The round will see Premier League sides enter the competition. 

Newcastle United were crowned the 2024 winners of the competition.