Carabao Cup (EFL Cup) Schedule: Fixtures and Games

The Carabao Cup Schedule for the 2024/25 season features a competitive lineup of Carabao Cup matches that engage teams across various levels of English football. Carabao Cup provides opportunities for lower-league clubs to face off against higher-ranked teams, often leading to thrilling upsets. The competition has a reputation for fostering talent development, as clubs utilize it to give young players valuable first-team experience. The winner earns a spot in the UEFA Conference League, enhancing their prestige and potential revenue, particularly for smaller clubs. The excitement of EFL Cup games draws in fans, making the tournament a staple in English football.

Changes have been implemented for the current season of the Carabao Cup. The removal of replays means that any matches that end in a draw after 90 minutes are going to go directly to penalties, simplifying the knockout format. Extra time is only utilized during the semi-finals and final, contrasting with the previous practice of including it in earlier rounds. The scheduling of Carabao Cup fixtures has been adjusted to separate European clubs during the third-round draw, alleviating conflicts with Champions League and Europa League matches. The restructuring aims to enhance the tournament's efficiency and maintain its appeal in a crowded football calendar.

The Carabao Cup schedule is organized by the English Football League (EFL), which determines the matchups through a draw system. The early rounds feature teams from lower divisions, with initial matches often regionalized to reduce travel. Premier League clubs not competing in Europe enter in the second round, while European participants join in the third round. The competition runs from early August to late February, culminating in a final at Wembley Stadium. The structured timeline maximizes viewer engagement and allows clubs to manage player fatigue effectively, making each Carabao Cup match significant for their aspirations.

The Carabao Cup remains a vital part of the English football landscape, celebrated for its competitive spirit and the unpredictability of its outcomes. The tournament is expected to be notably active in the early rounds, with an average of 3 matches per week, as 93 Carabao Cup games are scheduled for the season. The EFL Cup is becoming increasingly respected as fans watch the drama unfold in the EFL Cup fixtures, solidifying its position in the football calendar.

Carabao Cup Schedule and Fixtures - 2025/2026 Season

By Month

SEPTEMBER 2025

Wednesday, 10th Sep

01:00

Tranmere Rovers F.C.

Nottingham Forest(U21)

01:45

Mansfield Town F.C.

Harrogate Town A.F.C.

What Carabao Cup Games will happen this week?

There are no scheduled matches this week. Please stay tuned for fixtures in the upcoming week. In the meantime, you can check the latest results from last week below.

10/09/2025

Mansfield Town F.C. vs. Harrogate Town A.F.C.: Mansfield Town F.C. faces Harrogate Town A.F.C. at 01:45 GMT+7.

10/09/2025

Tranmere Rovers F.C. vs. Nottingham Forest(U21): Tranmere Rovers F.C. faces Nottingham Forest(U21) at 01:00 GMT+7.

03/09/2025

Bromley F.C. vs. Crystal Palace(U21): Bromley F.C. faces Crystal Palace(U21) at 01:45 GMT+7.

03/09/2025

Port Vale F.C. vs. Leeds United(U21): Port Vale F.C. faces Leeds United(U21) at 01:00 GMT+7.

03/09/2025

Huddersfield Town A.F.C. vs. Newcastle U21: Huddersfield Town A.F.C. faces Newcastle U21 at 01:45 GMT+7.

03/09/2025

Luton Town F.C. vs. Barnet F.C.: Luton Town F.C. faces Barnet F.C. at 01:30 GMT+7.

03/09/2025

Bradford City A.F.C. vs. Grimsby Town F.C.: Bradford City A.F.C. faces Grimsby Town F.C. at 01:30 GMT+7.

03/09/2025

Wigan Athletic F.C. vs. Salford City F.C.: Wigan Athletic F.C. faces Salford City F.C. at 01:00 GMT+7.

03/09/2025

Stockport County F.C. vs. Wolves U21: Stockport County F.C. faces Wolves U21 at 01:00 GMT+7.

03/09/2025

Wycombe Wanderers F.C. vs. Colchester United F.C.: Wycombe Wanderers F.C. faces Colchester United F.C. at 01:00 GMT+7.

How to Bet on Carabao Cup Game on UFABET?

Register or Log In: Visit the UFABET website and either log in or create an account if you’re new. The registration process is quick (around five minutes) and includes automated steps with helpful customer support. Identity verification, such as a government-issued ID, is required to secure the account and ensure responsible gambling.
Deposit Funds: Deposit funds into your UFABET account after logging in. Payment options include bank transfers and e-wallets, with THB and USD being standard currencies. Once the deposit is complete, check out the Carabao Cup betting schedule.
Choose a Match from the Schedule List: The Carabao Cup Betting section displays available matches after the account has been funded. Research the teams before choosing a match. Understanding team form, injuries, and head-to-head history increases the chances of making informed bets.
Select a Betting Market: Choose from various betting markets after selecting a match: Match Result, Over/Under Goals, Both Teams to Score, and Handicap Betting. Pick markets based on thorough research and strategy.
Place Your Bet: Consider factors such as odds, team stats, and recent performances before placing your bet. Set a reasonable amount based on responsible betting practices, and monitor odds changes as they fluctuate before the match. Stay within your budget and limit bets responsibly.

Register or Log In: Visit the UFABET website and either log in or create an account if you’re new. The registration process is quick (around five minutes) and includes automated steps with helpful customer support. Identity verification, such as a government-issued ID, is required to secure the account and ensure responsible gambling.
Deposit Funds: Deposit funds into your UFABET account after logging in. Payment options include bank transfers and e-wallets, with THB and USD being standard currencies. Once the deposit is complete, check out the Carabao Cup betting schedule.
Choose a Match from the Schedule List: The Carabao Cup Betting section displays available matches after the account has been funded. Research the teams before choosing a match. Understanding team form, injuries, and head-to-head history increases the chances of making informed bets.
Select a Betting Market: Choose from various betting markets after selecting a match: Match Result, Over/Under Goals, Both Teams to Score, and Handicap Betting. Pick markets based on thorough research and strategy.
Place Your Bet: Consider factors such as odds, team stats, and recent performances before placing your bet. Set a reasonable amount based on responsible betting practices, and monitor odds changes as they fluctuate before the match. Stay within your budget and limit bets responsibly.

What are the most Anticipated Carabao Cup Games this Season?

The most anticipated Carabao Cup games this season are driven by intense rivalries, opportunities for European qualification, and the potential to boost team momentum. Rivalries remain a key attraction, with matches like Leeds United vs. Middlesbrough and Sheffield United vs. Sheffield Wednesday promising fierce competition. The Steel City Derby, in particular, is known for its passionate fan engagement, making it one of the most thrilling fixtures of the tournament. These rivalry games draw significant media attention and ignite excitement among fans.

The Carabao Cup is more than just a domestic competition, offering teams a chance to secure a spot in the UEFA Conference League playoff round. Clubs aiming to expand their European presence view these fixtures as critical to their season's success. The tournament presents a valuable pathway to European football for mid-table Premier League teams and strong Championship sides, increasing the stakes for every match.

Certain Carabao Cup Matches offer teams the opportunity to regain form more than rivalries and qualification chances. The Newcastle vs. Chelsea game on October 30th exemplifies such a scenario, where a win boosts the season's momentum for either side. Manchester United's clash with Leicester City holds significance as a victory restores confidence for the Red Devils, known for thriving in cup competitions. These wins prove essential as clubs juggle demanding league schedules and other tournament commitments.

How are the Carabao Cup Schedule and Fixtures determined?

Carabao Cup Schedule and Fixtures are determined by the English Football League (EFL), which organizes and oversees the entire tournament. The Carabao Cup schedule is the timeline that outlines when each round of the competition takes place, from the initial rounds to the final. It includes important dates for matches, draws, and any potential replays. Carabao Cup fixtures are specific matchups between teams, listing the clubs involved, venues, and the dates and times for each game.

The Carabao Cup fixtures are decided through a draw system before every round. In the early rounds, teams from the lower divisions compete first, such as the EFL Championship, League One, and League Two. These initial pairings are often regionalized into northern and southern sections to minimize travel burdens. Premier League clubs not competing in European tournaments enter the second round, while clubs involved in UEFA competitions (like the Champions League or Europa League) enter the third round.

Each draw is conducted live, with clubs drawn randomly to determine their opponents. The EFL manages the process, assigning home or away venues by chance unless specific conditions apply. There is seeding to separate stronger teams or regionalization to reduce travel in the early rounds, but all remaining teams are drawn at random in the later rounds.

The EFL is responsible for the Carabao Cup schedule and the official fixture-making process. After each round concludes, the EFL conducts the next draw to set the matchups for the following stage, ensuring the smooth progression of the competition.

What Factors does the Organization consider when doing the Carabao Cup Fixtures?

The factors organizations consider when doing the Carabao Cup Fixtures are listed below.

Team Availability: Team Availability considers injuries, suspensions, and international call-ups. Its importance lies in ensuring clubs field competitive squads and preserving the integrity of matches. The unavailability of key players influences a team's performance and the game's overall quality.
Stadium Availability: Pre-booked events, maintenance, and shared venues impact when and where games are held. Stadium coordination is critical to ensuring fixtures occur without conflicts and that facilities are ready for matchday operations.
TV Broadcasting Schedules: TV schedules align match timings with peak viewing hours to attract larger audiences. The factor is essential as it maximizes viewership and generates revenue through advertising, benefiting both the tournament and participating clubs.
International Competitions: Conflicts with UEFA tournaments or global events affect the scheduling of fixtures. The factor ensures that clubs participating in Europe avoid excessive match congestion, helping them perform well in multiple competitions.
Local Derbies: Derby matches require careful scheduling due to heightened rivalry and fan interest. The factor ensures that appropriate security measures are in place and enhances fan experiences by choosing suitable dates for these high-profile encounters.
Travel Logistics: Travel arrangements consider distances and transport availability to minimize player fatigue. Proper planning is crucial for maintaining team performance, especially during busy schedules or when matches are scheduled far from home.
Player Rest Periods: Adequate recovery time between matches is essential to prevent fatigue and injuries. The factor ensures athletes maintain peak performance and health throughout the tournament, especially during congested periods of the Carabao Cup Schedule.
Weather Conditions: Forecasts influence match planning to avoid disruptions from severe weather. Ensuring safe playing conditions is important for player safety and maintaining pitch quality, which impacts gameplay and attendance.
Fan Attendance Considerations: Scheduling matches to fit fan availability boosts engagement and attendance. The factor ensures that ticketing options are sufficient and avoids clashes with other major events to maximize crowd turnout.
Security Requirements: Assessing risks helps determine the necessary safety protocols for matches. The factor ensures smooth operations and safeguards fans, players, and officials, particularly during high-stakes or high-tension fixtures.

The factors organizations consider when doing the Carabao Cup Fixtures are listed below.

Team Availability: Team Availability considers injuries, suspensions, and international call-ups. Its importance lies in ensuring clubs field competitive squads and preserving the integrity of matches. The unavailability of key players influences a team's performance and the game's overall quality.
Stadium Availability: Pre-booked events, maintenance, and shared venues impact when and where games are held. Stadium coordination is critical to ensuring fixtures occur without conflicts and that facilities are ready for matchday operations.
TV Broadcasting Schedules: TV schedules align match timings with peak viewing hours to attract larger audiences. The factor is essential as it maximizes viewership and generates revenue through advertising, benefiting both the tournament and participating clubs.
International Competitions: Conflicts with UEFA tournaments or global events affect the scheduling of fixtures. The factor ensures that clubs participating in Europe avoid excessive match congestion, helping them perform well in multiple competitions.
Local Derbies: Derby matches require careful scheduling due to heightened rivalry and fan interest. The factor ensures that appropriate security measures are in place and enhances fan experiences by choosing suitable dates for these high-profile encounters.
Travel Logistics: Travel arrangements consider distances and transport availability to minimize player fatigue. Proper planning is crucial for maintaining team performance, especially during busy schedules or when matches are scheduled far from home.
Player Rest Periods: Adequate recovery time between matches is essential to prevent fatigue and injuries. The factor ensures athletes maintain peak performance and health throughout the tournament, especially during congested periods of the Carabao Cup Schedule.
Weather Conditions: Forecasts influence match planning to avoid disruptions from severe weather. Ensuring safe playing conditions is important for player safety and maintaining pitch quality, which impacts gameplay and attendance.
Fan Attendance Considerations: Scheduling matches to fit fan availability boosts engagement and attendance. The factor ensures that ticketing options are sufficient and avoids clashes with other major events to maximize crowd turnout.
Security Requirements: Assessing risks helps determine the necessary safety protocols for matches. The factor ensures smooth operations and safeguards fans, players, and officials, particularly during high-stakes or high-tension fixtures.

What is the Significance of the Carabao Cup Table for Match Schedules?

The significance of the Carabao Cup Table for match schedules lies in its unique role, as the competition does not follow a league structure with traditional points-based Carabao Cup standings. The tournament is instead played as a knockout, where a "table" represents the organization and progression of teams. The structure of the competition guides matchups and timelines, regardless of whether there is a formal Carabao Cup Table.

The draw progression functions as a type of "progression table," where random draws determine each round's matchups. Draws determine whether matches are played at home or away, and Premier League teams enter in later rounds- the second round is for teams without European obligations, while the third round is for teams in European competitions. The structured entry adds strategic importance to the tournament’s scheduling, impacting potential high-stakes fixtures.

A "schedule table" emerges from the competition’s stage-by-stage format, detailing the timeline of each round, such as the first round in mid-August and the final in March. The timeline is essential for planning rest periods, venue assignments, and travel logistics for clubs and fans. Knowing when key rounds, like the semifinals or the final, are scheduled helps clubs prepare for crucial matches in advance. The fixture list, another table-like element, tracks which teams advance and outlines future matchups, offering clarity for teams and supporters. The list is a roadmap, showing how results in each round influence the progression toward the final. The transition from regionalized early rounds to an open draw in later stages mirrors how groups in a league table function, easing travel burdens initially before competition becomes unrestricted.

The absence of a traditional Carabao Cup standings system results in a dynamic and flexible scheduling methodology. Each victory reshapes the path forward, making updating the list of remaining teams and future opponents crucial. The random draw influences scheduling logistics and impacts venue availability and rest periods between matches, ensuring that teams and fans stay prepared throughout the tournament.