Newcastle United have been drawn against Manchester City in the semifinals of the Carabao Cup, setting up a two-legged tie against the eight-time competition winners.
The draw was confirmed on Thursday,
with holders Newcastle scheduled to host the first leg at St James’ Park. The return fixture will be played at the Etihad Stadium three weeks later, with the first legs taking place in the week commencing January 12 and the second legs in the week beginning February 2, according to ESPN.
Eddie Howe’s side reached the semifinals after a stoppage-time winner from Lewis Miley secured a 2–1 quarterfinal victory over Fulham on Wednesday night. Manchester City booked their place with a 2–0 win over Brentford, continuing their push for another domestic trophy under Pep Guardiola.
ESPN reported that Newcastle, as defending champions, will welcome City to Tyneside first, a factor that could prove significant given the atmosphere at St James’ Park during last season’s run to the trophy. Newcastle lifted the Carabao Cup last campaign, ending a 68-year wait for major domestic silverware.
The other semifinal will see Chelsea face either Arsenal or Crystal Palace. That tie remains undecided due to scheduling complications, with Arsenal and Palace still to contest their quarterfinal at the Emirates Stadium following Palace’s involvement in European competition. Chelsea secured their semifinal place with a 3–1 win over Cardiff City, while Arsenal or Palace will complete the final four.
According to The New York Times’ reporting, the Carabao Cup final is scheduled for Sunday, March 22, at Wembley Stadium. Newcastle will be aiming to defend their title, but face their toughest test yet against a Manchester City side well-versed in navigating two-legged knockout ties.
