Arsenal, Liverpool, Newcastle, and Tottenham have made it to the semi-finals of the Carabao Cup this year, each vying for the chance to clinch the prestigious trophy. The draw for these semi-finals has set Arsenal against Newcastle, whilst Liverpool will battle Tottenham, lining up two exciting clashes for football fans.
After impressive performances in the quarter-finals, where Arsenal defeated Crystal Palace 3-2, Newcastle claimed victory over Brentford with a score of 3-1, Liverpool triumphed over Southampton 2-1, and Tottenham edged Manchester United 4-3, the stakes are now higher than ever. The semi-final draw was conducted Thursday night, and anticipation is rising as teams prepare for the knockout rounds.
For Arsenal, having reached this stage is both promising and challenging. Historically, the Gunners have lifted the EFL Cup just twice, back in 1987 and 1993. Yet head coach Mikel Arteta is determined to lead his team to glory and secure his first major trophy since winning the FA Cup in 2020.
The matchup against Newcastle United will not be easy. The Magpies, who secured their semi-final spot after dispatching Brentford comfortably, will look to make their mark. This is especially poignant for Eddie Howe, who is striving to end Newcastle's 70-year drought for significant silverware, their last major triumph being the FA Cup.
The semi-final format consists of two legs: the first match is set to occur at the Emirates Stadium, home to Arsenal, during the week commencing January 6, 2025, with the return leg scheduled for St. James' Park the week beginning February 3, 2025. Given Arsenal's earlier league match against Newcastle, which ended with them on the losing side, the Gunners will be eager for redemption.
Meanwhile, across London, Liverpool will face Tottenham for perhaps the night’s most anticipated tie. The Reds, who have won the Carabao Cup more than any other team—totaling 10 victories—are aiming to defend their title successfully. The first leg will take place at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, followed by the return fixture at Anfield.
Tottenham, led by manager Ange Postecoglou, are also hungry for success. They last lifted the trophy back in 2008, and with the club still without silverware for 15 years, the pressure is mounting. Postecoglou, known for his attacking style of play, leads his squad with aspirations of breaking this trophy drought.
An intriguing subplot to this year's draw is the potential for facing old rivals Arsenal should both teams progress. The possibility of a North London derby final is tantalizing for fans, especially as the clubs have never met at this stage and have faced each other four times previously during the League Cup semis.
Match timings for the semi-finals are carefully pondered, with both clashes operating over two weeks. The winners of these encounters will meet at Wembley Stadium, with the final scheduled for March 16, 2025—a date circled on the calendars of many devoted fans.
Arsenal and Newcastle's first leg is set to be pivotal. The anticipation is palpable as tickets for these semi-finals will soon be made available to the public, with fans eagerly awaiting details on purchasing options. Both clubs are expected to provide updates on ticket sales across their official channels shortly.
The historical weight of these encounters cannot be overlooked. Arsenal has previously won all three EFL Cup matches against Newcastle, though the recent league defeat adds tension. This time around, the fixtures promise thrilling play as teams look to capitalize on their strengths and capitalize on each other’s weaknesses.
For Liverpool against Tottenham, the stakes are equally significant. The clubs have not met in the League Cup since 2016 but have faced each other previously during the Champions League final of 2019. This semi-final will bring its own level of excitement, as both teams push hard to craft their narratives this season.
Looking at both semi-finals, it's clear the competition will be fierce, with each side bringing its own ambitions and talents to the pitch. Arsenal aims to redirect its fortunes, Liverpool hopes for continued success, Newcastle looks to make history, and Tottenham desires to end its silverware drought. The next few weeks will be electric as the teams prepare to vie for glory on the domestic stage.
