The Carabao Cup semi-final draw has been confirmed, setting up exciting ties for English football fans. Defending champions Newcastle United will face eight-time winners Manchester City, while Chelsea will take on either Arsenal or Crystal Palace, with the latter tie set to be decided on Tuesday, 23 December.
Newcastle, who lifted the trophy for the first time in 70 years after defeating Liverpool in March, will now take on City in a clash between two of English football’s top teams. Manchester City, who secured a fourth consecutive Carabao Cup title in 2021, return to the semi-finals for the first time since that triumph, making this an eagerly anticipated showdown.
The second semi-final has a slightly more uncertain line-up. Chelsea, runners-up to Liverpool in 2022 and 2024, are guaranteed a place, but their opponents will depend on the outcome of Arsenal’s rescheduled quarter-final clash with Crystal Palace. The game was moved to accommodate Arsenal’s Europa Conference League commitments under manager Oliver Glasner, ensuring the Gunners do not play three matches in five days.
The semi-finals will be played over two legs, with the first leg scheduled for the week commencing 12 January 2026 and the return leg in the week beginning 2 February. These fixtures promise high drama as clubs aim to progress to the final at Wembley and add another domestic trophy to their cabinets.
Full Semi-Final Draw:
- Chelsea vs Arsenal/Crystal Palace
- Newcastle United vs Manchester City
With Newcastle seeking to defend their title, Chelsea aiming to end an 11-year Carabao Cup drought, and Manchester City looking to return to winning ways, the semi-finals are shaping up to be a must-watch for football fans across England and beyond.
