Carabao Cup 2025/2026: Fixtures, Live Scores & Season Preview

Carabao Cup fans are gearing up for another thrilling 2025/2026 season, as England’s most exciting knockout football competition returns with fresh drama, surprises, and unforgettable moments. Whether you are a devoted supporter of a Premier League giant or cheer for a lower league underdog, this year’s Carabao Cup promises plenty of action and stories worth following.

Carabao Cup 2025/2026: All You Need to Know

The Carabao Cup, known officially as the EFL Cup, kicks off its 65th edition with clubs across England’s football pyramid vying for a place in the final at Wembley Stadium. With its unique single-elimination format, every fixture carries high stakes, ensuring nail-biting encounters right from the opening round.

This season’s schedule features carefully planned fixtures, allowing fans to track their favorite teams’ journeys through each stage. Early rounds will see League One and League Two sides battling for giant-killing opportunities, while Premier League clubs enter in later rounds, often leading to high-voltage clashes. Keep a close watch on the official fixture list to stay updated on key matches and venues.

Live Scores and Match Updates for Carabao Cup 2025/2026

For fans eager to experience every second of the Carabao Cup 2025/2026, live scores and real-time updates will be essential. Leading sports platforms will offer comprehensive minute-by-minute coverage, ensuring supporters never miss a goal, penalty, or dramatic finish. As in previous seasons, the unpredictable nature of the Carabao Cup means perennial favorites can stumble while lesser-known sides seize the spotlight.

Bookmarking your trusted sources for live scores is highly recommended, especially as the competition reaches the latter stages and tension mounts. The road to Wembley is always packed with surprises, making every fixture a must-watch event.

Teams to Watch in the Carabao Cup 2025/2026

This season, watch out for ambitious lower-league clubs determined to upset the established order. In recent years, teams like Newport County and Lincoln City have written memorable cup stories, and the 2025/2026 edition could see new names making headlines. Among the Premier League elite, Manchester City and Liverpool have established strong Carabao Cup traditions, but rivals such as Chelsea, Arsenal, and Tottenham will be equally hungry for silverware.

Don’t discount Championship and League One teams—history shows that the Carabao Cup rewards organization, grit, and a bit of luck. A favorable draw or a standout performance can transform a season for any club.

Carabao Cup Season Format and Key Dates

Featuring a single-leg knockout format up to the semi-finals, and a two-legged semi-final, the Carabao Cup creates a relentless pace that tests every squad’s depth and resilience. Early rounds begin in August, with the final traditionally held under the iconic arch of Wembley Stadium in late February or early March.

Key dates to circle:

• First Round: August 2025
• Second Round: August 2025
• Third Round: September 2025
• Quarter-finals: December 2025
• Semi-finals (two legs): January 2026
• Final: March 2026

The Importance of the Carabao Cup

Beyond the trophy, the Carabao Cup offers a route into European football, with the winner securing a place in the UEFA Conference League. For many clubs, especially those outside the Premier League’s top four, this adds an extra layer of motivation. Additionally, the cup provides a platform for young talent to shine and for managers to experiment with tactics and lineups.

How to Follow the Carabao Cup 2025/2026

Fans can follow all fixtures, live scores, and breaking news on official channels and reputable sports websites. For a streamlined and global perspective, visit for more news on the latest Carabao Cup updates, team news, and expert analysis throughout the competition.

Opinion: Why the Carabao Cup Still Matters

Despite often being overshadowed by other competitions, the Carabao Cup remains a vital part of England’s football fabric. Its fast-paced, knockout nature rewards teams willing to take risks and gives smaller clubs a realistic chance for glory. Seeing underdogs topple heavyweights or young players make their mark on the big stage is what keeps the magic of the Carabao Cup alive every season.