Carabao Cup Quarterfinal Predictions: Favorites Emerge as Giants Clash

The Carabao Cup reaches its thrilling quarterfinal stage this week. Four matches will decide which teams advance to the semifinals. Major clubs like Manchester City and Arsenal remain in the hunt for the season’s first domestic trophy.

According to analysis from Sports Illustrated, several Premier League giants are heavily favored. However, surprise packages and one lower-league team aim to cause major upsets. The action kicks off on Tuesday night.

Cardiff Face Chelsea Challenge as City Aim to Dominate

League One leaders Cardiff City host Chelsea on Tuesday. The Welsh side has a famous cup history, reaching the 2012 final. They have beaten four teams already to get this far.

Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca is expected to field a strong side. The Blues have struggled in some away cup matches this season. Yet their top-flight quality should see them through against Cardiff.

Manchester City face Brentford on Wednesday. Pep Guardiola’s team is in superb form with five straight wins. City has won this competition four times under Guardiola’s leadership.

Brentford’s poor away form in the league is a major concern. They have lost seven of eight Premier League games on the road. City’s depth and experience make them overwhelming favorites at the Etihad Stadium.

Newcastle Defend Title as Arsenal Seek Trophy Relief

Defending champions Newcastle United host Fulham. Winning this cup last season ended a decades-long trophy drought for the Magpies. The St James’ Park crowd will be a huge factor.

Fulham were semifinalists last year and possess dangerous attackers. Newcastle already beat them in a close league match this October. Eddie Howe’s side is predicted to edge another tight contest.

Arsenal meets Crystal Palace in the final quarterfinal next week. Mikel Arteta is desperate to win a major trophy after recent near-misses. The Gunners’ only significant honor under him is the 2020 FA Cup.

Palace will be fatigued from Europa Conference League duties. They lost to Arsenal earlier in the Premier League season. The Gunners’ current strength makes them clear favorites to progress.

The Carabao Cup quarterfinal predictions set the stage for dramatic midweek football. Expect the favorites to advance, but cup magic always remains a possibility.

Thought you’d like to know

When are the Carabao Cup quarterfinals being played?

Three matches are scheduled for Tuesday and Wednesday, December 16-17. The Arsenal vs. Crystal Palace tie is set for Wednesday, December 23 due to European scheduling.

Which team is the favorite to win the Carabao Cup now?

Manchester City are considered the strongest remaining team. Their recent form and deep squad make them the outright favorites with bookmakers and analysts.

Has a lower-league team ever won the Carabao Cup?

Yes, though it is rare. Perhaps the most famous example is Sheffield Wednesday winning in 1991 while in the second tier. Cardiff City, then a Championship club, reached the final in 2012.

What is the prize for winning the Carabao Cup?

The winner receives the trophy and qualifies for the UEFA Europa Conference League playoff round. It also secures a place in the following season’s Community Shield match.

Why are Arsenal playing their match later than the others?

Crystal Palace has a Europa Conference League fixture the previous week. To ensure fairness and player recovery, the EFL scheduled the quarterfinal for the following Wednesday.