The road to Wembley for the season's first piece of domestic silverware is now clear after the highly anticipated Carabao Cup semi-final draw was conducted. Just five Premier League teams remain in contention, with the two-legged ties set to produce a thrilling climax to the competition.
Semi-Final Fixtures Confirmed
Chelsea have been drawn against the winners of the delayed fourth-round tie between Arsenal and Crystal Palace. The Blues secured their place in the final four with a hard-fought victory away at League One side Cardiff City on Tuesday night. Despite a spirited fightback from the Welsh club, a goal from Pedro Neto ensured Enzo Maresca's side progressed.
In the other semi-final, the holders Newcastle United will face the formidable Manchester City. The Magpies, who ended their long trophy drought by winning last season's final against Liverpool, edged past Fulham with a dramatic stoppage-time winner. Manchester City, six-time winners since 2014, booked their spot with a comfortable 2-0 win over Brentford at the Etihad Stadium on Wednesday.
Key Dates and Outstanding Tie
The semi-final stage moves to a two-legged format. The first legs are scheduled for the week commencing January 12, with the return fixtures set for February 2. The victorious teams will then march on to the Wembley final on March 22.
One quarter-final remains unresolved. Arsenal's clash with Crystal Palace was postponed due to the Eagles' UEFA Conference League commitments. They face KuPS on Thursday night, meaning their domestic cup tie will now be played on December 23. The winner will join Chelsea in the last four.
What's at Stake for the Contenders
For Chelsea, it's a chance to continue their remarkable run under Enzo Maresca and potentially win a third trophy in under a year, following their Club World Cup success. Pep Guardiola's Manchester City will be aiming to reclaim the trophy and secure the manager's fifth League Cup triumph.
Newcastle, meanwhile, have the opportunity to defend their title and ensure their wait for major silverware is measured in years, not decades. For Arsenal, or Crystal Palace, the draw represents a clear path to a Wembley final and a shot at early-season glory.
The stage is now set for a thrilling conclusion to the Carabao Cup, with four of England's biggest clubs battling for the first available honour of the campaign.
