The stage is set for the Carabao Cup semi-finals as Tottenham Hotspur will take on Liverpool, and Arsenal will face Newcastle United. These enticing matchups follow an action-packed quarter-final stage, where drama, comebacks, and standout performances paved the way for the final four teams to progress.
The semi-finals, played over two legs, are scheduled for the week of January 6th and the week commencing February 3rd, with the winners securing a coveted spot in the final at Wembley Stadium on March 16th.
Tottenham’s Thrilling Win Over Manchester United
Tottenham clinched the final semi-final spot with a dramatic 4-3 victory over Manchester United at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on Thursday night. The North London side appeared to be cruising with a 3-0 lead by the 54th minute, thanks to a brace from Dominic Solanke and a strike from Dejan Kulusevski.
However, goalkeeper Fraser Forster’s errors handed United a lifeline, as substitutes Joshua Zirkzee and Amad Diallo capitalized to reduce the deficit to 3-2. United dominated the latter stages of the match, but Tottenham struck a decisive fourth goal when Son Heung-min scored directly from a corner. Despite a late Jonny Evans header, Spurs held on to secure a place in the semi-finals.
Tottenham now face Premier League leaders Liverpool, a team known for their attacking firepower and tactical prowess under manager Arne Slot.
Liverpool Overcome Southampton to Progress
Liverpool booked their semi-final berth with a 2-1 victory over a managerless Southampton side. Despite resting key players such as Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk, the Reds proved too strong for their opponents.
— Liverpool FC (@LFC) December 19, 2024
Darwin Nunez broke the deadlock in the 24th minute after capitalizing on Jan Bednarek’s defensive error. Southampton managed to level the score through a spirited effort, but Liverpool’s resilience shone through, and they secured their place in the semi-finals with a composed finish.
The holders now turn their attention to Tottenham, who will provide a stern test as Liverpool aim to defend their Carabao Cup crown.
Arsenal Edge Crystal Palace in Thriller
Arsenal secured a hard-fought 3-2 win over Crystal Palace to reach the semi-finals. Gabriel Jesus ended his goal drought with a spectacular hat-trick, marking his first goals on home soil in 2024.
The Brazilian striker, who had previously scored just once in 20 appearances this season, delivered when it mattered most. Arsenal, last crowned Carabao Cup champions in 1993, made eight changes to their starting lineup but showcased depth and determination to overcome Palace.
Hat-trick completed
⚽️⚽️⚽️ @gabrieljesus9 pic.twitter.com/2xY8qjPKho
— Arsenal (@Arsenal) December 19, 2024
Manager Mikel Arteta will now prepare his side to face Newcastle United in the semi-finals, a challenging matchup given Newcastle’s resurgence and determination to end their trophy drought.
Newcastle’s Dominant Display Against Brentford
Newcastle United cruised past Brentford with a 3-1 victory at St. James’ Park, powered by Sandro Tonali’s exceptional performance. The Italian midfielder scored twice, including a stunning strike from the edge of the area in the ninth minute.
Eddie Howe named a full-strength side, reflecting Newcastle’s commitment to the competition. The victory keeps the Magpies on course to emulate their run to the 2023 Carabao Cup final, where they narrowly missed out on silverware.
.@brunoog97 @fabianschaer pic.twitter.com/QbqNu9DDwS
— Newcastle United (@NUFC) December 19, 2024
Newcastle’s semi-final clash with Arsenal promises to be a thrilling encounter, as both teams aim to end their respective trophy droughts. Newcastle have not won a major trophy since lifting the Inter-Cities Fairs Cup in 1969, adding to their motivation to go all the way this year.
Key Semi-Final Matchups
Tottenham Hotspur vs. Liverpool
- Key Players to Watch:
Tottenham’s Son Heung-min and Dejan Kulusevski will be pivotal against Liverpool’s dynamic front line, which includes Darwin Nunez and Mohamed Salah. - Historical Context:
Liverpool enter as defending champions, while Tottenham will be looking to end their 15-year trophy drought.
Arsenal vs. Newcastle United
- Key Players to Watch:
Arsenal’s Gabriel Jesus and Martin Ødegaard will look to unlock Newcastle’s sturdy defense, led by Kieran Trippier and Nick Pope. Sandro Tonali’s form will be vital for Newcastle’s midfield dominance. - Historical Context:
Arsenal’s last Carabao Cup triumph came in 1993, while Newcastle are eager to lift their first domestic trophy in over five decades.
Road to Wembley
The Carabao Cup semi-finals will be played over two legs, with the first leg scheduled for the week of January 6th and the return fixtures during the week commencing February 3rd. The winners will advance to the final at Wembley Stadium on March 16th, where they will battle for the first major domestic trophy of the season.
With four competitive teams remaining, this year’s Carabao Cup promises an exciting conclusion as fans eagerly anticipate who will emerge victorious. Whether it’s Tottenham, Liverpool, Arsenal, or Newcastle, the road to Wembley is set to deliver high-stakes drama and unforgettable moments.
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