When talking about Carabao Cup, the English League Cup known for its fast‑paced knockout matches and surprise upsets. Also called the EFL Cup, it sits alongside the FA Cup as a key domestic trophy for clubs across the Premier League and the lower divisions.
The tournament is run by the English Football League, the governing body that organizes the competition and allocates prize money to participating clubs. Its knockout tournament, a single‑elimination format where each round is decided over one or two legs creates high stakes: one bad night and a top‑flight side can be out. That pressure fuels dramatic moments, from extra‑time heroics to penalty shoot‑outs that become instant classics.
Since 2017 the cup has carried the name of Carabao, the Thai energy‑drink brand that provides the main sponsorship. The partnership brings financial backing that boosts prize pools and helps smaller clubs cover travel costs, while also giving the sponsor TV exposure across the UK. This link between sponsorship and club finances shows how the competition not only entertains fans but also supports the sport’s economics.
Clubs use the Carabao Cup as a testing ground for young talent and new tactics. Managers often rotate squads, giving academy graduates a chance to shine on a national stage. For big clubs, winning adds to the trophy cabinet and can secure a spot in European competitions if the league finish falls short. For lower‑division teams, a deep run can raise the club’s profile, attract better players, and generate extra revenue from ticket sales and broadcasting.
Fans love the unpredictability. History is full of underdogs reaching the final, like Swansea in 2013 or Leicester in 2023, proving that the cup rewards ambition as much as budget. The blend of prestige, financial incentive, and the chance for glory makes the Carabao Cup a unique fixture in the English football calendar.
Below you’ll find the latest match previews, results, and expert analysis that cover everything happening in the Carabao Cup right now.
In a tense South London derby, Crystal Palace held Millwall to a 1-1 draw before winning 4-2 on penalties at Selhurst Park. Debutant keeper Walter Benítez saved two spot‑kicks to seal the win. Richards netted the Palace goal from a crowded corner. The victory pushes Palace’s unbeaten streak to 16 games and sends them into the fourth round.