League Two Play Off Semi Finals: Who Goes To Wembley?
Every spring, the League Two play offs add an exciting end to the season. Four clubs stand two games from a day at Wembley, with promotion to League One within reach.
If you’re new to the play offs, this guide walks through how the semi finals work and why they matter so much to clubs, players and supporters.
By the end, you’ll know who is involved, how the ties are decided, and when everything takes place, so you can follow the action with confidence.
Who Is In The League Two Play Offs?
This year, four clubs are set to compete in the League Two play offs, all hoping to secure a place at Wembley and a shot at promotion to League One. Here’s a quick look at each club taking part.
Salford City
Based in Greater Manchester, Salford City have risen quickly in recent years and continue to push for higher levels. They finished 3rd in League Two and their recent form (L-D-W-W-D) suggests they are in a strong position going into the play offs.
Notts County
The world’s oldest professional club, Notts County have rebuilt strongly and bring an attacking style that has earned them plenty of goals. After finishing 4th and winning two of their last five matches (W-L-L-W-D), Notts County will be hoping to produce strong performances to get to Wembley.
Chesterfield
From Derbyshire, Chesterfield draw on solid organisation and a clear identity. After securing play offs on the final day of the season and finishing 6th in League Two, Chesterfield are the form team going into the play offs (D-W-D-W-W), which should give them a good chance of progressing.
Grimsby Town
On the Lincolnshire coast, Grimsby Town carry strong community support and a record of responding well to big occasions. Grimsby finished the League Two campaign in 7th in strong form (L-W-W-W-D), which should give them a good chance against a strong opponent in Salford.
With the contenders in place, the next question is how they match up and what decides who goes through.
Who Plays Who In The League Two Play Offs?
The League Two play off semi finals are set up with two separate matchups, each played over two legs, one home and one away. The winner in each pairing reaches the final at Wembley.
Salford City vs Grimsby Town
One semi final sees Salford City take on Grimsby Town. Each side gets a home fixture, and the tie often turns on how well they manage the away leg and key moments across both games. The team with the higher aggregate score progresses.
Both sides are in strong form going into the play offs, which should result in an entertaining match up across two legs.
Notts County vs Chesterfield
The other semi final features Notts County against Chesterfield. Both have strong lower-league pedigrees, and margins are usually tight when these clubs meet. Again, the higher aggregate score decides it.
There is no away goals rule. If the aggregate score is level after the second leg, the tie goes to extra time, then penalties if needed. Playing home and away is designed to keep things fair, giving each club similar conditions across the two matches.
When Will The League Two Play Off Semi Finals Be Played?
The semi finals follow straight after the regular season ends in May. Each tie is played over two matches, one at each club’s ground.
The fixtures for the League Two Play Offs are as follows:
- May 10th, 1st Leg: Grimsby Town vs Salford City
- May 10th, 1st Leg: Chesterfield vs Notts County
- May 15th, 2nd Leg: Salford City vs Grimsby Town
- May 15th, 2nd Leg: Notts County vs Chesterfield
League Two Play Off Semi Finals Predictions
Forecasting the semi finals is never straightforward because the teams are closely matched and the setting changes how games are approached. Over two legs, outcomes often hinge on fine margins such as set-piece quality, in-game management and squad depth.
Salford City arrive with a group that has handled pressure well. Notts County carry consistent goal threat. Chesterfield tend to limit chances against them and stay compact. Grimsby Town have shown they can rise to the occasion and lean on well-drilled patterns of play.
The first leg often shapes the second. A narrow lead can bring a more controlled approach in the return game, while a deficit might push a side to press earlier or commit more players forward. Player availability matters too. Fitness, suspensions and quick turnarounds between legs can influence selection and tactical choices.
In short, expect intensity, careful game plans and moments where decision-making under pressure becomes decisive.
When Is The League Two Play Off Final?
The League Two play off final is usually held towards the end of May at Wembley Stadium, a fitting stage for a promotion decider.
For the 2025-26 season, the match is scheduled for Monday, 25th May. Kick-off details are set by the EFL and confirmed closer to the date. Ticketing is organised by the EFL and the clubs, with full guidance provided ahead of the game.
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