Milton Keynes Dons – Barnsley

Milton Keynes Dons host Barnsley in what promises to be a tightly contested clash at the Stadium MK, with both sides eager to claw points from a difficult start to the season. The Dons sit just above the relegation zone in 20th place, having failed to win any of their eight games so far, recording five draws and a solitary loss while scoring eight and conceding ten. Barnsley sit two spots higher in 18th, holding seven points from two victories, one draw and three defeats, with a goal difference of minus five after netting six and letting in eleven. Given the Dons’ inability to turn draws into wins and Barnsley's slightly better recent form, the encounter could hinge on which side can finally break their deadlock and secure the three points needed to move away from the bottom‑three scramble.