Tuesday's EFL Cup predictions including Exeter vs. Middlesbrough

Mansfield vs. Port Vale (Tuesday, 7.45pm)

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Two of the lowest-ranked teams left in the EFL Cup lock horns with a quarter-final place at stake on Tuesday, as League Two pacesetters Mansfield Town meet League One strugglers Port Vale at Field Mill.

The Stags - who are yet to lose a game this season - sunk Peterborough United on penalties to reach the fourth round for the first time ever, while the visitors edged past Sutton United 2-1 in round three.

We say: Mansfield Town 2-1 Port Vale

As injuries continue to decimate an out-of-sorts Port Vale squad, Crosby's side - whose run to the last 16 must still be applauded - may very well be on the wrong end of another EFL Cup upset this week.

Mansfield are hardly in tip-top shape when it comes to squad fitness either, but the Stags are showing no sign of slowing down anytime soon and can avenge last year's Wembley beating to enter the quarter-final draw for the first time ever.

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Exeter vs. Middlesbrough (Tuesday, 7.45pm)

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Potentially just 90 minutes away from reaching the EFL Cup quarter-finals for the first time ever, Exeter City pit their wits against Championship opposition in the shape of Middlesbrough on Tuesday evening.

One of the three lowest-ranked teams left in the tournament, the hosts shocked Premier League new boys Luton Town in round three, while Michael Carrick's team sunk Bradford City 2-0.

We say: Exeter City 0-2 Middlesbrough

Plagued by constant attacking shortcomings and also far from watertight in defence, Exeter's EFL Cup journey appears destined to end at St James Park, even with Boro sure to rotate their injury-hit resources.

Carrick acknowledged that his side fell short of their usual standards against Stoke, but we have faith in Boro to get back on track and seal a quarter-final place with minimal fuss.

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