Carabao Cup: What’s Happening This Season?

Did you know the Carabao Cup has delivered more surprise upsets than any other English cup in the last decade? It’s the competition where lower‑league sides can knock out Premier League giants, and where young players get their big break. If you’ve been tracking the tag page, you already know there’s a lot of buzz around the latest round of matches.

Key Fixtures You Can’t Miss

Right now the quarter‑finals are heating up. Manchester United travel to face Newcastle United, while Liverpool host Southampton at Anfield. Both games kick off on Thursday at 7:45 pm local time and will be streamed live on the official Carabao Cup app and on BBC Sport. Keep an eye on the second‑tier clubs too – Brentford and Aston Villa have pulled off impressive wins and could be the dark horses this year.

If you’re wondering where to catch the action on a budget, most of the early rounds are free on the BBC iPlayer. Later stages move to Sky Sports, but you can still watch highlights on the club’s YouTube channels within a few hours of the final whistle. Signing up for the Carabao Cup newsletter gives you instant alerts for kickoff times and any last‑minute venue changes.

Why the Carabao Cup Matters

Beyond the trophy, the Carabao Cup offers a direct route into European competition. The winner secures a spot in the Europa Conference League, which can be a massive financial boost for a mid‑table side. That’s why clubs often rotate their squads – they want to protect their star players for the league while still giving younger talent a chance to shine.

Recent seasons have shown that tactical tweaks can decide a match in seconds. Managers like Pep Pope and Oliver Grep have used high‑pressing systems to force turnovers, leading to quick goals. Watching how each manager approaches the game can teach you a lot about modern football strategy.

Fans also love the quirky traditions that come with the cup. The “Carabao” mascot appears at every stadium, handing out cheese‑filled balloons to kids. Meanwhile, the official match ball – a bright orange design – often becomes a collector’s item after the final.

To stay on top of the tournament, bookmark the tag page on Everard Read Daily News. It aggregates all the latest Carabao Cup stories, from match reports to player interviews, so you never miss a beat. Whether you’re a die‑hard supporter or just looking for a quick score update, the page has you covered.

Finally, if you’re planning a match‑day outing, remember to check travel advisories and stadium entry rules. Many venues now require a QR code for entry, and some still enforce limited capacity. A quick glance at the club’s official website will tell you exactly what you need.

That’s the quick rundown on the Carabao Cup right now. Keep scrolling the tag page for fresh analysis, post‑match reactions, and insider tips on how to enjoy the cup to the fullest.

Barend Wilken 24 September 2025 13

Chelsea’s Late Revival Beats Lincoln City 2-1 in Carabao Cup Thriller

Chelsea survived a nervy Carabao Cup third‑round clash with League One side Lincoln City, overturning a 1‑0 half‑time deficit to win 2‑1. Tyreek George’s long‑range equaliser and Facundo Buonanotte’s first goal for the Blues secured passage to the next round despite defensive lapses.

View more