Wrexham A.F.C. Have a 35.8% chance of finishing in the Championship’s top eight this season, according to Opta’s supercomputer. The Red Dragons narrowly missed the play-offs last term, finishing seventh with 71 points (19W-14D-13L) after a final-day loss to Middlesbrough. This year’s expanded play-off format-now including six teams-boosts their promotion hopes.
The EFL’s decision to extend play-off spots to teams finishing third through eighth gives Wrexham a better shot at promotion. Opta’s model suggests they would have had only a 26.2% chance under the old system. Now, with West Ham (29.4%) and Southampton (23.7%) as top contenders, Wrexham’s 35.8% odds are competitive.
Wrexham kick off their 2026/27 campaign against Cardiff City on Monday, August 17, at the Cardiff City Stadium (8pm BST). This will be their first league meeting since 2002, when Cardiff won 3-2. The Red Dragons also face Middlesbrough again after a 1-0 Carabao Cup loss earlier this season.
After finishing 24 points behind leaders Coventry last season, Wrexham aim to close the gap. Scoring 69 goals while conceding 65 (+4 goal difference) shows their attacking potential, but defensive improvements will be key. With Hollywood owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney backing the squad, expectations are high.
