Carabao Cup semi-final second leg preview 

The Carabao Cup semi-final second legs are poised to deliver thrilling football as four Premier League giants in Arsenal, Newcastle United, Liverpool, and Tottenham contest for a spot in the final at Wembley Stadium on 16th March 2025.

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Arsenal vs. Newcastle United

Arsenal face a formidable challenge as they travel to St. James’ Park, trailing 2-0 from the first leg. Newcastle executed their first-leg game plan to perfection, journeying to the Emirates with a classic ‘smash and grab’ away victory in mind, which they successfully won. However, the Gunners’ recent 5-1 Premier League victory over Manchester City has bolstered their confidence.

Mikel Arteta will want to silence any doubters to his ability to win a trophy with this Arsenal team, but he and his side will have to produce something special against the Magpies to overcome their two-goal deficit, hence their price of 4/1 to progress to the final.

Newcastle, despite a recent 2-1 home defeat to Fulham, remain a resilient opponent. Manager Eddie Howe acknowledged the need for improvement but is likely to have his squad focused and ready to defend their advantage and strive towards their first major trophy in the 21st century. Alexander Isak is in fine form and has captured the interest of top European clubs. The Swede is 5/4 to score against the Gunners in the second leg.

Liverpool vs. Tottenham 

Liverpool enter the second leg at Anfield a goal behind after a surprise defeat to Tottenham in January. The Reds’ recent 2-0 victory over Bournemouth showcased Mohamed Salah’s form, as he netted a brace, including a penalty and a superb strike to maintain Liverpool’s lead in the Premier League. Salah is odds-on at 4/9 to score against Tottenham, and 12/5 to score two or more. However, they face a potential setback with Trent Alexander-Arnold’s injury, which may sideline him for this crucial fixture.

Tottenham manager Ange Postecoglou is under pressure following a series of poor results, including eight losses in their last ten league matches. Many Spurs fans suggest that Postecoglou might find himself in hot water if he fails to lift the trophy, given Tottenham’s league position and results – he’s 5/4 to be the next manager to leave a Premier League club. In similar fashion, José Mourinho was sacked by Daniel Levy a week before the Carabao Cup final in 2021.

Path to the Final

The winners of these semi-final ties will advance to the final at Wembley Stadium on 16th March, 2025. The Carabao Cup semi-finals are traditionally contested over two legs, a format that has been in place since the competition’s inception in 1960.

If Arsenal were to overcome Newcastle and Tottenham were to hold on to their lead over Liverpool, this year’s Carabao Cup final would mark the first ever North London Derby in a major domestic cup final. Both London clubs are outsiders to lift the trophy though, with Arsenal priced 7/1 and Tottenham at a shorter 11/2.

As the teams prepare for these decisive matches, fans can anticipate high-stakes football, with each club eager to secure their place in the final and the opportunity to claim the season’s first major silverware.

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