Bolton Wanderers host Bradford City in the first leg of the Sky Bet League One play-off semi-final on Saturday 9 May 2026. The match is scheduled to kick off at 19:45 UK time at Toughsheet Community Stadium and will be broadcast live on Sky Sports.
Both teams earned their place in the play-offs by finishing inside the top six of League One this season. The semi-final is a two-legged tie, with the second leg taking place at Bradford's home ground. The aggregate winner over the two legs will earn a place in the final at Wembley Stadium, where promotion to the Championship is on the line.
For Bolton, playing at home in the first leg offers an opportunity to build a lead and put pressure on Bradford. The Wanderers will be eager to capitalise on the support of their home fans. Bradford City, on the other hand, will aim to keep the tie level or secure a vital away goal that could prove decisive in the second leg.
Sky Sports will provide extensive live coverage of the match. Viewers can watch the action on Sky Sports Football, with pre-match build-up starting from 19:00 UK time. The broadcast will include expert analysis and post-match reaction. Additionally, highlights will be available shortly after the final whistle.
The play-offs are renowned for their drama and excitement, and this semi-final promises to be no different. Both sets of fans are expected to create a vibrant atmosphere at Toughsheet Community Stadium as their teams battle for a place in the final. The first leg is often crucial in setting the tone for the tie.
Managers will have to make strategic decisions, with formations and tactics playing a key role. The intensity is likely to be high, as every moment could have season-defining consequences. Football fans across the country will be tuning in to see which team takes an advantage to the second leg.
Based on reporting from SkySports | News.