Last updated by Nuala Williamson on 5th February 2026

The Carabao Cup is one of the ‘Big Three’ domestic trophies up for grabs in the English football season. Taking place just past the midway point of the campaign, the competition offers clubs the opportunity to secure early silverware and build momentum heading into the latter stages of the season.

The Carabao Cup 2025/26 has delivered another memorable chapter, packed with surprises, standout performances and dramatic knockout football. After months of compelling ties, the competition now reaches its conclusion — with Arsenal and Manchester City set to contest the Final at Wembley Stadium on Sunday 22nd March 2026.

With the road to Wembley complete, fans can now look forward to a showpiece final between two of English football’s most formidable sides. For those looking to elevate the occasion, Carabao Cup hospitality packages offer luxury dining, premium seating and exclusive access on one of the biggest domestic cup days of the season.

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Why the Carabao Cup matters

Since its first edition in 1960, the Carabao Cup — officially known as the EFL Cup — has become a cornerstone of the English football season. It provides an early opportunity for silverware, showcases emerging talent and often produces shock results that capture the spirit of knockout competition.

Whether it’s a Premier League giant chasing momentum or a lower-league side daring to dream, every round delivers high-stakes drama and unforgettable moments.

What’s happened so far

Third Round

The Third Round, played in mid-September, introduced several Premier League heavyweights and quickly set the tone for the competition.

  • Newcastle United cruised past Bradford City 4-1 to continue their title defence.
  • Crystal Palace edged Millwall on penalties after a tense 1-1 draw.
  • Brighton & Hove Albion produced a commanding 6-0 win over Barnsley.

Those victories confirmed that top-flight teams were taking the competition seriously from the outset.

Fourth Round

Late-October fixtures brought drama and upsets.

  • Newcastle United defeated Tottenham Hotspur 2-0 at St James’ Park, sealing a spot in the last eight.
  • Arsenal comfortably beat Brighton 2-0, with Mikel Arteta’s side showcasing impressive squad depth.
  • Crystal Palace stunned Liverpool 3-0 at Anfield, knocking out one of the pre-tournament favourites.
  • Chelsea survived a thrilling 4-3 encounter with Wolves to advance.

The final eight teams were confirmed after another unforgettable round of cup football.

Quarter-Final Highlights

Played in mid-December 2025, the quarter-finals delivered tight clashes and standout performances:

  • Newcastle United edged past Fulham 2-1 to continue their defence of the trophy.
  • Manchester City beat Brentford 2-0 with a controlled and clinical display.
  • Chelsea dispatched Cardiff City 3-1, with experienced attackers asserting themselves.
  • Arsenal vs Crystal Palace ended 1-1 after normal time, with Arsenal progressing on penalties in a dramatic shoot-out.

These victories set up two high-profile semi-final ties.

2025/26 Carabao Cup semi-finals

The semi-finals were contested over two legs, with the winners earning a place in the Final at Wembley Stadium.

Semi-final fixtures

First leg – mid-January 2026
Newcastle United vs Manchester City — 13 January 2026
Chelsea vs Arsenal — 14 January 2026

Second leg – early February 2026
Arsenal vs Chelsea — 3 February 2026
Manchester City vs Newcastle United — 4 February 2026

Across both ties, Arsenal and Manchester City showed their quality, composure and tactical discipline to book their place at Wembley.

The Carabao Cup Final: Arsenal v Manchester City

All roads now lead to Wembley Stadium on Sunday 22nd March 2026, where Arsenal and Manchester City will meet in a fitting finale to the Carabao Cup season.

For Arsenal, the Final represents another opportunity to convert consistency into silverware under Mikel Arteta. Manchester City, meanwhile, arrive with their trademark control and depth, aiming to add yet another domestic trophy to an already impressive honours list.

With two elite sides, contrasting styles and a national stadium setting, the Carabao Cup Final promises a high-quality contest worthy of the occasion.

Experience the Carabao Cup in style

A Wembley final is one of the highlights of the English football calendar, and there is no better way to experience it than with official hospitality.

Seat Unique offers access to premium Carabao Cup Final hospitality at Wembley Stadium, including exceptional food and drink, exclusive lounge access and outstanding views of the action.

Explore Arsenal v Manchester City Carabao Cup Final hospitality with Seat Unique and enjoy the season’s first major domestic final in true style.

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Are you interested in attending football matches outside of the Carabao Cup? Check out the premium football tickets available to purchase through Seat Unique and secure the best seats in the stadium today!