The Carabao Cup returns with thrilling fourth-round fixtures, promising high-stakes action as clubs across England vie for a spot in the quarterfinals.
With dramatic storylines and historic rivalries brewing, fans are set for a footballing feast.
Newcastle United v Chelsea
Newcastle United and Chelsea clash in what promises to be a tightly contested match at St James’ Park. Newcastle have a tough record against Chelsea in this competition, being knocked out in five of their six previous League Cup meetings. Most recently, last season’s encounter ended in heartbreak for Newcastle as Chelsea triumphed on penalties after a 1-1 draw at Stamford Bridge.
The Magpies have, however, been in fine form at home, with Chelsea losing on their last two visits in Premier League action. History favors Chelsea slightly, yet Newcastle are looking to reach the Carabao Cup quarter-finals for the third consecutive season, a feat they’ve never achieved before. They’ve also won their last five round-four games, giving fans hope for another victory on their turf.
Chelsea, meanwhile, will aim to continue their positive League Cup run by reaching the quarter-finals for back-to-back seasons, something they last achieved in 2018-19. With key forward Christopher Nkunku having already showcased his attacking prowess in this competition, Chelsea will rely on his form to unlock Newcastle’s defense in what is shaping up to be an intense, high-stakes encounter.
Aston Villa v Crystal Palace
Aston Villa host Crystal Palace in a game that could see the Villans extend their impressive run against the Eagles in the League Cup. Villa have historically dominated this fixture, progressing from three of their four previous meetings with Palace in the competition. The last encounter, back in 2003-04, saw Villa breeze through with a commanding 3-0 victory at Villa Park, where they’ll be hoping to replicate the result.
However, Palace will be out to break their poor away form at Villa Park, having not won there in their last seven attempts across all competitions. Their recent fourth-round record doesn’t inspire confidence either, with Palace exiting at this stage in their last three attempts. The Eagles last reached the quarter-finals in the 2011-12 season, when they were still in the Championship.
Aston Villa, despite their dominance in recent League Cup fixtures, have struggled against Premier League opposition in recent years, with their last three exits all coming from top-flight clubs. With star player Morgan Rogers in fine form—having scored in his last five League Cup outings—Villa fans will be hoping he can lead them to yet another victory on home soil.
Brentford v Sheffield Wednesday
Brentford face off against Sheffield Wednesday with the confidence of having won their last three encounters across all competitions. This League Cup meeting presents the Bees a chance to claim a fourth straight win over the Owls, something they have never previously achieved. Already in strong form this season, Brentford have comfortably dispatched League Two and League One sides to reach this stage.
For Sheffield Wednesday, history favors them in the League Cup, having progressed from both previous ties against Brentford in 1985-86 and 1990-91. The Owls have also been impressive in their fourth-round performances, advancing from their last three games at this stage, including a memorable 3-0 victory over Arsenal in 2015-16.
Brentford’s Fábio Carvalho, with five goals in his last six domestic cup appearances, will be key to the Bees’ attacking hopes. A victory would see Brentford continue their remarkable streak against lower-league teams in the League Cup as a Premier League club, while Sheffield Wednesday aim to revive their winning ways in the competition.
Brighton v Liverpool
Brighton and Liverpool meet in a mouthwatering fixture at the Amex Stadium, where Brighton will look to continue their strong form at home against the Reds. The Seagulls have won two of their last three home games against Liverpool in all competitions, a significant achievement considering their historical struggles in this matchup.
In League Cup history, Liverpool have the edge over Brighton, winning both of their previous encounters in the competition. However, the Reds’ recent League Cup performances suggest a potential upset, as they aim to avoid becoming the fourth consecutive holders to exit at this stage. Liverpool are aware that Brighton have won their last three League Cup home games and are chasing a fourth consecutive home victory in this competition for the first time.
With Cody Gakpo in excellent form—scoring six goals in his last League Cup appearances—the Dutchman will be Liverpool’s primary threat. Brighton, aiming to reach the quarterfinals for only the second time since 1978-79, will be eager to put on a show for their home fans in what could be a defining fixture in their cup campaign.
Source:norvanreports.com