Nottingham Forest have turned down a request from Huddersfield Town to move the fixture scheduled between the two teams at the Galpharm Stadium for August 26.
The Terriers want to change the date as the Huddersfield Giants Rugby League team have reached the Challenge Cup final but have suggested the following Tuesday as an alternative.
"If the game is played on the Saturday then we will take between 2,500 and 3,000 fans," said Forest chief executive Mark Arthur.
"If it is moved to midweek, then far fewer Forest fans would be able to go. We would probably be looking at nearer 500. People would have work commitments and children may not be able to attend either.
"Football should always be played on a Saturday where possible and I don't see any reason for moving this match."