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Arsenal hunt Eagles, Reds lurk Saints in a 'clash of the coachless'
Reading Time: 2min | Wed. 18.12.24. | 14:20
The Gunners pursue the League Cup trophy they won only twice, the last time 31 years ago, against Crystal Palace, while the trophy-defenders, Liverpool, have - in prospect - an easy task against Southampton
There's no Champions League this Wednesday, but the English clubs still have obligations - this time in the League Cup quarter-finals. In the opening duel Arsenal host Crystal Palace at Emirates after a disappointing goalless draw with Everton in the Premier League.
🏆The big day is here! 😍#EFL | #CarabaoCup pic.twitter.com/C1vrktdPe1
— Carabao Cup (@Carabao_Cup) December 18, 2024
The tie against the Toffees was the Gunners' second consecutive draw in the PL, and their title dreams are seriously jeopardized. On the other hand, the Eagles have returned from the verge of the relegation zone, as has their manager, Oliver Glasner, from the brink of getting sacked. Palace are undefeated in five games in a row and travel to North London full of confidence.
On the other hand, in the far south of England, Southampton will await the Premier League leaders, Liverpool. The Reds are - at least in prospect - supposed to have an easy task, especially considering the alarming situation at St Mary's Stadium.
Namely, the Saints are on a six-match winless run and were most recently destroyed by Tottenham at home 5-0, conceding all five goals before the break. That terrible spell took its "victim," as manager Russell Martin was fired two days ago. At the same time, Liverpool will be without their boss as well since Arne Slot is suspended for the accumulated bookings.
"I'm still able to do the things I want to do" 💪
— Sky Sports News (@SkySportsNews) December 17, 2024
Arne Slot discusses the impact of his touchline ban for Liverpool's Carabao Cup quarter-final against Southampton ❌ pic.twitter.com/y9jfVkRXNJ
Even though the Dutchman's crew failed to beat Fulham at home in the previous PL round, the 2-2 draw additionally boosted their already high confidence as they managed to score twice with a man down and avoid defeat. Still, 24 days ago, the Reds barely beat Southampton at St Mary's 3-2 behind Mohamed Salah's late penalty winner, so any underestimation of the home team could severely backfire.
Elsewhere, Newcastle host Brentford, whereas the ultimate quarter-final match between Tottenham and Man United will be played tomorrow night.
EFL CUP - QUARTER-FINALS
Wednesday
22.30: (1.37) Arsenal (4.80) Crystal Palace (9.00)
22.45: (1.60) Newcastle (4.10) Brentford (5.50)
23.00: (6.00) Southampton (4.70) Liverpool (1.50)
Thursday
23.00: (2.40) Tottenham (3.60) Man.Utd. (2.80)
***odds are subject to change***
