Bromley's EFL Cup campaign came to an end as they lost 5-4 to Reading in a penalty shootout after a 1-1 draw. The match was a closely contested affair, with both teams creating chances throughout the 90 minutes. Reading took the lead in the 14th minute through Josh Stokes, but Bromley equalised just after the half hour through Michael Cheek. The match remained level until the end of the 90 minutes, when Richard Taylor was sent off for a second yellow card. In the penalty shootout, Reading's Joel Pereira proved to be the match winner, saving Ethon Archer's spot-kick to claim a 5-4 victory. The defeat means Bromley will drop down to the third round of the EFL Cup, while Reading will progress to the second round. Bromley are currently 1st in England League Two, 87 points from 46 games, with a goal difference of +25. They are 1 point clear of Milton Keynes Dons and have a next fixture against Stevenage at home on 1 January 2027. The team has scored 71 goals this season and conceded 46.