Capital clash tops a tasty Carabao Cup quarter-final line-up

Call it what you like — third trophy, midweek distraction, or a fast-track to Wembley — but try telling Newcastle fans last season that the Carabao Cup doesn’t matter. The holders are back in the groove and the quarter-final draw has served up a proper mix: a capital derby, a blue heavyweight on the road, and two ties loaded with narrative. The fixtures land in the week commencing 15 December, and every kick is live on Sky Sports.

The draw at a glance

Arsenal v Crystal Palace

Cardiff City v Chelsea

Manchester City v Brentford

Newcastle United v Fulham

Pundit’s take on each tie

Arsenal v Crystal Palace: A spicy London dust-up to headline the round. Mikel Arteta’s side looked controlled and sharp as they saw off Brighton in the last 16, while Oliver Glasner’s Palace went to Anfield and walloped Liverpool 3-0 — the sort of result that turns heads and dressing rooms alike. Expect Arsenal to dominate the ball, but Palace’s vertical threat and set-piece clout make this far from a formality.

Cardiff City v Chelsea: The Championship’s lone standard-bearer earned their shot the hard way, edging Wrexham after a bruising derby. Their reward? Enzo Maresca’s Chelsea, fresh from a seven-goal thriller at Wolves. Chelsea’s patterns are flowing, but Cardiff’s physical edge and atmosphere in the Welsh capital will test their resolve. Upset potential? It’s there, if the Blues get casual.

Manchester City v Brentford: City had to come from behind to shake off Swansea, a reminder that cup nights can nip if you snooze. Keith Andrews’ Brentford, meanwhile, smashed five past Grimsby and arrive with purpose. The Etihad factor and City’s depth make them favourites, but if Brentford press cleanly and punish in transition, this could be a proper chess match with a few flying tackles thrown in.

Newcastle United v Fulham: The holders look businesslike again after a tidy 2-0 against Spurs. Fulham needed penalties at Wycombe but showed composure and plenty of grit. St James’ Park under the lights is a different beast, mind; if Newcastle get that early squeeze on, it’s a long evening for the visitors. Still, Marco Silva’s lot can move the ball smartly — don’t discount a tight one if they weather the first 20.

How we got here

Grimsby’s stirring run ended as Brentford ran riot 5-0. Fulham kept their nerve to oust Wycombe on penalties after a 1-1 draw, and Cardiff saw off Wrexham in a full-blooded Welsh affair. On a goal-laden Wednesday, holders Newcastle handled Tottenham, Arsenal turned over Brighton with authority, Manchester City rallied to beat a stubborn Swansea, and Chelsea edged Wolves in a seven-goal cracker. The headline shock? Palace strolling out of Anfield with a 3-0 — a statement and then some.

When are the games and how to watch

The quarter-finals are slated for the week commencing 15 December, with exact dates and kick-off times to be confirmed. Every tie is live in the UK on Sky Sports, so whether you’re braving the cold or parked on the sofa, you’re covered.

For the punters

If you’re weighing up the odds for these quarter-finals, our home for best betting sites has you sorted — just remember, form goes out the window on cup nights and set pieces can swing a tie. Manage your stakes and enjoy the ride.

Bottom line

It’s a balanced draw with jeopardy all over it: Arsenal tested by a fearless Palace, Cardiff’s crack at the aristocracy, City’s focus against a purposeful Brentford, and Newcastle trying to keep their hands on a trophy they now fancy as their own. Winter nights, knockout football — exactly how December should look.

Information via the EFL (correct as of 29 October 2025).