Blackpool began their EFL Trophy campaign in spectacular fashion, thrashing Barrow 5-0 in a one-sided group stage match on September 17, 2025. This emphatic match result immediately announced Blackpool's intent in the competition and gave them a significant goal difference advantage. The game kicked off at 2:00 AM at Bloomfield Road, where Blackpool dominated from the first whistle, scoring early to set the tone. They added further goals before halftime, effectively ending the contest as a spectacle. The second half saw more of the same, with Blackpool's attacking players enjoying a field day against a beleaguered Barrow defense. The standout performance was Blackpool's fluid attacking unit, which was far too sharp for their League Two opponents on the night. This victory sent Blackpool straight to the top of the group table, while leaving Barrow with a heavy defeat to analyze. Blackpool's head coach would have been delighted with the ruthlessness shown, while Barrow's manager had to focus on a quick response. The starting XIs saw Blackpool field a strong side that executed their game plan to perfection.