Carabao Cup 2025-26 draw, fixtures, results and round guide
The Carabao Cup returns in 2025-26 as England’s clubs begin another run at one of domestic football’s major trophies, with a place in Europe also on offer for the winners.
The competition follows the usual straight knockout format, with ties settled on the night in the early rounds. Premier League clubs not involved in European football enter in the second round, while those playing in Europe join in the third round.
When is the Carabao Cup 2025-26 draw?
The draw schedule follows the standard EFL Cup pattern across the season, with separate draws for each round as the field narrows. The key dates and confirmed draw information will be updated as they are announced.
Carabao Cup 2025-26 fixtures and results
Fixtures and results will be listed round by round as they are confirmed. The tournament begins with the first round, featuring EFL clubs and the Premier League sides entering at that stage. The second round then introduces the top-flight teams not in Europe, with the remaining Premier League clubs entering in the third round.
Round-by-round guide
First round
The opening stage is made up of EFL sides along with the Premier League teams that enter early. Matches are one-off ties.
Second round
Premier League clubs not involved in European competition enter here, joining the first-round winners.
Third round
The Premier League clubs playing in Europe enter at this stage, increasing the strength of the draw as the competition moves towards the latter rounds.
Fourth round
With fewer teams remaining, the fourth round sets up the quarter-finals as clubs chase a path to Wembley.
Quarter-finals
A single-leg tie decides who progresses to the last four.
Semi-finals
The semi-finals are played over two legs, with the aggregate winners advancing.
Final
The final is staged at Wembley, where the trophy and European qualification are on the line for the winners.
