Brentford beat Birmingham City 6-1 in the EFL Cup, using their shared 4-2-3-1 shape more effectively through sustained control and sharper attacking execution. The visitors held 68% possession and generated 2.25 xG from 18 shots, repeatedly stretching Birmingham’s midfield and finding space beyond the home side’s double pivot. Nathan Collins scored twice, while Mikkel Damsgaard and Igor Thiago added a goal apiece as Brentford turned their territorial advantage into a decisive scoreline. Birmingham, operating with 32% possession, recorded eight attempts and 0.77 xG, with Demarai Gray supplying their only goal. The contrast was especially clear on target: Brentford tested the goalkeeper eight times, compared with Birmingham’s two, and the hosts’ 25% goalkeeper save rate offered little resistance once chances reached the penalty area. Brentford’s own goalkeeper posted a 50% save rate, underlining how limited the workload was despite Gray’s finish. Tim Robinson oversaw a match in which Brentford’s structure, ball retention and efficiency separated the sides emphatically. Brentford advance with their attacking form firmly established.