Full details of the Carabao Cup semi-final draw have now been officially confirmed, giving fans a clear picture of what to expect as the competition reaches a crucial stage.
The announcement comes just before the quarter-final ties begin, adding extra excitement to an already busy week of football.
The action gets underway tonight with Cardiff City hosting Chelsea, with kick-off scheduled for 8pm. It is a big opportunity for both sides, as a place in the semi-final draw hangs in the balance.
Attention then turns to Wednesday, when two more quarter-final matches will decide the remaining spots in the last four.
Manchester City face Brentford on Wednesday evening, with that match starting at 7.30pm. Shortly after, Newcastle United welcome Fulham to St James’ Park, with kick-off set for 8.15pm.
For Newcastle supporters, the night carries extra importance, not just because of the game itself, but also because the semi-final draw will take place immediately after the final whistle on Tyneside.
Once the Newcastle v Fulham match has concluded, the Carabao Cup semi-final draw will be broadcast live on Sky Sports Main Event. According to the organisers, the draw is expected to begin at around 10.35pm.
Mark Chapman will host the coverage, joined by pundits Jamie Redknapp and former Newcastle United goalkeeper Shay Given, who will also take part in drawing the ties.
There is one more quarter-final still to be played, with Arsenal taking on Crystal Palace next Tuesday, 23 December, in an 8pm kick-off. Despite that match being played later, both clubs will be represented by a single ball in the semi-final draw taking place tomorrow night, meaning their fate will already be decided before they step onto the pitch.
The scheduling for the semi-final stage has also been confirmed. The first legs of the ties will be played in the week commencing 12 January 2026. The return legs are set for the week beginning 2 February 2026, giving teams time to prepare while balancing league and European commitments.
The final of the competition has been pushed back later than in previous seasons. Traditionally held in late February, this year’s Carabao Cup final will take place on Sunday 22 March 2026.
As always, Wembley Stadium will host the showpiece event, offering the remaining two teams a chance to lift silverware under the arch.
For Newcastle United, progression to the semi-finals would carry added significance. While the club’s overall history in the League Cup over more than six decades has been largely disappointing, things have changed in recent years.
Since Eddie Howe took charge, Newcastle’s record in this competition has improved dramatically.
One remarkable statistic stands out. Whenever Newcastle United have reached the League Cup semi-finals, they have always gone on to reach the final.
That has happened three times, in 1976, 2023 and most recently in 2025. It is a rare bright spot in an otherwise difficult history in the tournament and offers genuine hope if they can get past Fulham.
With clear dates, confirmed broadcast details and a live draw set to follow Wednesday night’s action, the stage is now set for a dramatic conclusion to the Carabao Cup.
For clubs and supporters alike, the next few days could define their season and bring them one step closer to a trip to Wembley.
