QPR Win Penalty Shootout Thriller Against Luton in EFL Cup

Queens Park Rangers secured their place in the next round of the EFL Cup after overcoming a resilient Luton Town in a penalty shootout at Loftus Road.

Marti Cifuentes's side, featuring a number of changes from their previous match, took the lead thanks to a fortunate goal. Elijah Dixon-Bonner's shot was parried by Luton goalkeeper Thomas Kaminski into the path of Brazilian full-back Santos, who made the most of his full debut for the club since joining in July to fire home.

However, Luton levelled the score in spectacular fashion, with a stunning strike from Nelson. Following a corner, the midfielder's first-time volley from outside the box arrowed into the far corner, leaving QPR goalkeeper Walsh with no chance.

Luton manager Rob Edwards, whose side are yet to win in their opening four matches of the season, made five changes to his starting lineup following their 1-0 defeat at Preston North End in the Championship on Saturday. This included a first start since December for midfielder Marvelous Nakamba.

Edwards made three changes at half-time, bringing on Mads Andersen, Tom Holmes, and Liam Walsh for Nakamba, Reece Burke, and Amari'i Bell respectively. QPR also made a change, replacing defender Steve Cook with Jake Salter-Clarke.

The second half saw a flurry of chances. Luton's Morris, who had set up Nelson's equaliser with a clever flick, saw his header saved by Walsh, while Adebayo forced another save after Walsh had been unable to hold Chong's shot. Kaminski also kept Luton in the game with a series of important saves, denying Alfie Lloyd and Zan Celar from Karamoko Dembele's free-kick.

With the score tied at 1-1 after 90 minutes, the match went to penalties. Both sides were composed from the spot, but QPR held their nerve to secure a crucial victory and progress to the next round of the competition.