Stoke City lose to Hull City on penalties in EFL Cup

Stoke City were knocked out of the EFL Cup by Hull City after suffering a penalty shootout defeat at the bet365 Stadium. The Potters made a bright start and took the lead in the 39th minute when Róbert Bozeník headed home from close range following a cross from Sorba Thomas. However, Stoke were unable to hold onto their advantage, with Hull equalising just before half-time as Kieran Dowell produced a composed finish to make it 1-1.

The second half remained tightly contested, with both sides creating opportunities but neither able to find a decisive goal. Stoke goalkeeper Josh Griffiths made several important saves to keep his side in the contest, while George Hirst also came close to putting the Potters back in front. With the scores level after 90 minutes, the tie was decided by penalties, where Hull held their nerve to secure victory and book their place in the next round. For Stoke, the defeat was a frustrating end to a cup tie in which they had competed strongly against Premier League opposition.