The latest Carabao Cup draw is out, and it’s shaping up to be a night of regional rivalries and potential upsets. Sixteen clubs that survived the third round will face off on 27 October 2025, with the eight winners earning a ticket to the quarter‑finals and, ultimately, a shot at Wembley on 22 March 2026.
Geographical Split Keeps Travel Short
True to tradition, the draw has been split into northern and southern sections. This format reduces travel costs for clubs and fuels local bragging rights, as teams are more likely to be matched against familiar opponents. The northern bracket will see clubs from the Midlands up to the North East tussle, while the southern side will feature sides from the South Coast down to Wales.
By keeping the fixtures regional, the competition preserves its reputation as a realistic platform for lower‑league teams to test themselves against top‑flight opposition without the logistical nightmare of cross‑country trips.
Teams to Watch and Giant‑Killing Potential
Premier League representatives Brentford and Crystal Palace have already booked their spots, adding top‑tier intrigue to the mix. However, the draw also includes surprise packages that have punched above their weight: Grimsby Town, fresh from a shock victory over a Championship side, and Swansea City, who have flown the flag for the Football League with a string of impressive cup performances.
- Brentford – looking to cement their growing Cup pedigree after last season’s deep run.
- Crystal Palace – hoping to translate solid league form into knockout success.
- Grimsby Town – the underdog story that could ignite another giant‑killing.
- Swansea City – a club with Cup experience eager to surprise the Premier League.
The fourth round is historically the stage where the magic happens. Ten‑time winners Liverpool and serial champions Manchester City have both dominated the competition in recent years, but the regional draw often creates match‑ups that level the playing field. A well‑timed defensive masterclass or a set‑piece goal can tip the balance, and fans love the possibility of a smaller club marching into Wembley.
Beyond the headline names, the remaining slots are filled by a blend of Championship hopefuls and ambitious League One outfits, each dreaming of a night that could rewrite their season narratives. The compact schedule – just three wins away from the final – means that every decision, from squad rotation to tactical tweaks, carries weight.
Looking ahead, the winners of these eight fixtures will join the elite eight that continue the race to March’s grand finale. With Newcastle United having broken a 70‑year trophy drought by beating Liverpool 2‑1 in the previous final, the upcoming edition promises fresh storylines, fresh heroes, and perhaps a fresh champion.