The 2025/26 League One season kicks off in style on Sunday with a fiery North West derby, as Stockport County welcome Bolton Wanderers to Edgeley Park.
Both clubs harbour serious promotion ambitions, and this early season clash could set the tone for the months ahead.
Where to watch: The match will be available for viewing live on Sky Sports Football Plus in the UK or you can go live in play with Bet365.
When to watch: The kick off time of the Stockport v Bolton match is at 12:00PM BST on August 3rd, Sunday.
You can watch Stockport v Bolton LIVE in play with Bet365 here
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Stockport come into the new campaign still stinging from another brutal playoff exit.
After finishing third in League One last term, just five points shy of automatic promotion, the Hatters fell to Leyton Orient on penalties in the semi-final ,their second shootout heartbreak in as many years.
But if history is anything to go by, there’s reason for optimism as Dave Challinor’s side rebounded from similar disappointment in 2023 by storming to the League Two title the following season.
Under Challinor, Stockport have experienced a remarkable resurgence.
Since taking charge, the club hasn’t finished lower than fourth in any of the past four seasons.
Promotion from the National League was followed by a swift rise up the ladder, and the Hatters now dream of bringing Championship football back to Edgeley Park for the first time in over two decades.
Challinor recently signed a new three year contract, reaffirming the club’s long-term vision.
His side ended last season with an 11-game unbeaten streak at home, turning Edgeley Park into something of a fortress.
With expectations sky high and the fanbase fully behind them, Stockport will look to maintain that momentum against a Bolton team just as hungry for success.
The Trotters narrowly missed out on promotion last season as well, and like Stockport, they enter this campaign among the favourites to go up.
The Edgeley Park crowd could be in for a classic.
