Rochdale AFC 2026-27 Season Schedule and Competition Overview
As the new football season approaches, Rochdale AFC prepares for a demanding campaign across multiple competitions. With the League Two fixtures officially revealed on June 25, the club is gearing up for a series of critical matchups both at home and away, aiming to climb the league table.
The club will balance its league ambitions with knockout competitions, including the FA Cup, the EFL Cup, and the EFL Trophy, testing the squad's depth and resilience throughout the year.
Key Facts
- League Two: Fixtures were announced on June 25, with the opening match scheduled for August 15, 2026.
- Home Ground: Most home matches will be played at the Crown Oil Arena (Spotland).
- EFL Cup Result: Rochdale advanced past Tranmere Rovers in the preliminary round via a penalty shootout after a 2-2 draw.
- EFL Trophy Group: Rochdale is placed in Northern Group H alongside Doncaster Rovers, Huddersfield Town, and Liverpool U21.
- Broadcasting: Specific matches against Oldham Athletic and Port Vale have been rescheduled for live Sky Sports broadcasting.
League Two Campaign
Rochdale's journey in League Two begins with an away trip to Newport County. The early part of the season features a mix of home fixtures at the Crown Oil Arena and challenging away trips to clubs like Colchester United and Walsall.
Notably, the fixture against Oldham Athletic on September 19 has been moved to a 12:30 BST kick-off to accommodate Sky Sports. Similarly, the clash with Port Vale on October 31 has been brought forward to 12:30 GMT for live television coverage.
[ไม่มีภาพประกอบ]Upcoming League Two Fixtures
| Date | Opponent | Venue | Kick-off (BST/GMT) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 15 August 2026 | Newport County | Away (Rodney Parade) | 12:30 BST |
| 22 August 2026 | Crawley Town | Home (Crown Oil Arena) | 15:00 BST |
| 29 August 2026 | Colchester United | Away (JobServe Community Stadium) | 15:00 BST |
| 1 September 2026 | Shrewsbury Town | Home (Crown Oil Arena) | 19:45 BST |
| 5 September 2026 | Gillingham | Home (Crown Oil Arena) | 15:00 BST |
Cup Competitions
EFL Cup
Rochdale's EFL Cup run began with a dramatic preliminary round encounter against Tranmere Rovers at Prenton Park. After a 2-2 draw in regulation time—with goals from Senior and Davies for Rochdale—the match was decided by a penalty shootout, which Rochdale won.
However, the journey ended in the first round on August 8, 2025, where Rochdale suffered a 2-0 defeat against Bradford City at Mbanq Valley Parade, with goals scored by Swan and Baldwin.
EFL Trophy
In the EFL Trophy, Rochdale has been drawn into Northern Group H. This group stage competition sees them face off against Doncaster Rovers, Huddersfield Town, and the Liverpool U21 side. The top team from this group will advance to Round 2 of the competition.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does Rochdale AFC start their League Two season?
The season begins on August 15, 2026, with an away match against Newport County at Rodney Parade.
Which matches have been moved for television?
The matches against Oldham Athletic (September 19) and Port Vale (October 31) were both brought forward to 12:30 kick-offs for live broadcasting on Sky Sports.
How did Rochdale perform in the EFL Cup preliminary round?
Rochdale played to a 2-2 draw against Tranmere Rovers and successfully progressed to the next round by winning the penalty shootout.
Who are Rochdale's opponents in the EFL Trophy group stage?
Rochdale is competing in Northern Group H against Doncaster Rovers, Huddersfield Town, and Liverpool U21.
Where is Rochdale's home stadium located?
Rochdale plays its home matches at the Crown Oil Arena, also known as Spotland.