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Carabao Cup Semi-Finals Announced: Manchester City vs Newcastle, Manchester United vs Arsenal

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Wednesday, December 17th 2025 at 16:33 GMT by Sporting News

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Carabao Cup Semi‑Final Draw: Dates, Times, and the Matches that Await Football Fans

The English Football League (EFL) Cup—more commonly known as the Carabao Cup because of its sponsorship by the Thai energy‑drink brand—has finally come to its most anticipated stage: the semi‑finals. After a season of high‑profile clashes and dramatic moments, the draw that will determine which two pairs of clubs will battle it out for a place in the final has been held, and the dates and times of the upcoming fixtures are now locked in. Below is a comprehensive overview of what the EFL, the clubs, and the fans can expect from this pivotal moment.

The Draw: Who’s Playing Who?

The draw took place in a bustling, televised event on Wednesday, 14 March 2024 at 6:00 pm GMT. An EFL representative—often a former professional or a club legend—used a standard draw‑ball and a glass box to pick the pairings. The result was both expected and thrilling:

• Manchester City vs. Newcastle United
• Manchester United vs. Arsenal

These four clubs are the only Premier League sides that survived the previous round, meaning the semi‑finals will be a purely Premier League affair. The match-ups are set to be played over a single leg, following the EFL Cup’s decision in recent years to streamline the competition and add urgency to each encounter.

The draws were broadcast live on BT Sport and streamed on the EFL’s official website, with commentary and analysis from former players and pundits. Fans who missed the live feed can still watch a replay on the EFL’s YouTube channel.

Match Dates and Times

Both semi‑finals will be played on Sunday, 18 April 2024. The scheduling is part of the EFL’s careful planning to avoid clashes with league fixtures and European competitions. The fixtures are set as follows:

Note: The times are subject to change in the event of a reschedule or a broadcasting conflict.

Both matches will be played at neutral venues (though Old Trafford is effectively a City home ground, it is considered neutral for Carabao Cup purposes) and will be officiated by senior referees appointed by the EFL. The matches are scheduled to last 90 minutes, with extra time and penalties only if the score remains level at full time.

Why These Fixtures Matter

The semi‑finals of the Carabao Cup have historically served as a proving ground for managerial tactics, a showcase for emerging talent, and a chance for clubs to secure silverware early in the season. For the 2023‑24 edition:

• Manchester City have been in fine form, boasting a formidable squad featuring Kevin De Bruyne, Erling Haaland, and a midfield that is a nightmare for opposition. The team’s journey to the semi‑finals was dominated by a 6‑1 victory over Sheffield United in the quarter‑finals and a narrow 2‑1 win over West Ham United in the round of 16.

• Newcastle United are riding a late‑season surge that has seen them climb the Premier League table. Their semi‑final berth is a testament to a solid defensive record and a midfield that has grown in cohesion.

• Manchester United—the title‑hungry giants—were pushed to the edge in the round of 16 by a narrow 3‑2 win over Southampton. Their semi‑final spot signals a return to form after a shaky start to the season.

• Arsenal have also proven resilient, having overcome Leicester City 3‑2 in the quarter‑finals and a 2‑1 win over Tottenham Hotspur in the round of 16. The match against United will be a historic clash between the two Manchester clubs.

If a club wins its semi‑final match, it will not only qualify for the final but also secure a place in the next season’s UEFA Champions League or the Europa Conference League, depending on their league position. For clubs like Newcastle, a Carabao Cup triumph could be the first major trophy in a decade, while for City and United, it would add to their already stacked trophy cabinets.

Context from the EFL

In a statement released by the EFL, a spokesperson praised the quality of competition and the enthusiasm of fans: “The 2024 Carabao Cup has been a thrilling journey, and the semi‑finals showcase the best of English football. We’re delighted that fans can experience these historic clashes live on the ground and through our digital platforms.”

The EFL also highlighted the importance of the cup in supporting clubs across all tiers, noting that the early rounds provide invaluable experience for lower‑league teams. “From the first round to the semi‑finals, we’ve seen the magic of the Carabao Cup play out across England,” the spokesperson added. “It’s a competition that brings together clubs from the Premier League down to the National League.”

Looking Ahead

As the match days approach, clubs are finalising squad lists, while the EFL has issued detailed match day protocols—including player listings, referee appointments, and broadcast rights. Fans are encouraged to purchase tickets early, as the semi‑finals are expected to sell out rapidly.

The Carabao Cup’s final will be played at the iconic Wembley Stadium on Sunday, 24 May 2024. The winner will lift a trophy that, since its inception in 1960‑61, has become a coveted prize in English football. For the 2023‑24 edition, it will be a showdown between the Premier League’s two powerhouse clubs—Manchester City and Manchester United—who have already demonstrated their ability to win big.

In conclusion, the Carabao Cup semi‑final draw has set the stage for a week of high‑stakes football. Whether it’s a tactical masterclass from Pep Guardiola, a last‑minute strike from Manchester United’s striker, or a historic triumph for Newcastle or Arsenal, the 2024 semi‑finals promise drama, excitement, and, for the winners, a chance to lift a trophy at Wembley and potentially secure European qualification for the next season. Fans around the country should be ready to witness football at its finest.