Following a hard-fought journey that began back in August, the stage is set for the highly anticipated EFL Cup 2024-25 Semi-finals. With their consistent performance and impressive strategic gameplay, the four Premier League Clubs are just a step back from reaching their final destination, and the excitement is palpable. However, their path to this was not easy, and sometimes, they faced challenges and celebrated victories. In addition, every match, every goal, and every momentum led to this point, showcasing their passion and determination to their dreams.
First, we have Arsenal, a team known for its powerful attack and solid defense, facing off against Newcastle United, a team that has shown great skill and determination this season. The first match will occur on January 7, 2025, at Emirates Stadium (London). Will Arsenal use their home advantage, or will Newcastle United surprise us all with a stellar performance? On the other side of the draw, we have Tottenham Hotspur taking on Liverpool. Tottenham is ready to prove its worth, but Liverpool’s phenomenal season and incredible squad make this match a must-watch for all football fans. The first leg is scheduled for January 8, 2025, at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium (London).
The semi-finals will be played over two legs, and the winners will advance to the grand final on March 16, 2025. These semi-final matches are not just stepping stones, but crucial battles that will determine who gets a shot at the Carabao Cup 2024-25. So, prepare your jerseys, gather your friends, and get ready for this exhilarating journey through the EFL Cup 2024-25 Semi-finals.
The Journey to the EFL Cup 2024-25 Semi-Finals
Arsenal began their EFL Cup 2024-25 campaign in the third round on September 25, 2024, winning the game against Bolton with a score of 5-1. In the round of 15, they faced Preston, and that game day, their solid defense was highly evident on the ground. Thanks to Gabriel Jesus, Ethan Nwaneri, and Kai Havertz. With a strong performance, they qualified for the quarterfinal, in which they faced Crystal Palace by a margin of two points; they defeated them and are now ready to face Newcastle United.
Newcastle United entered the game in the second round of the EFL Cup 2024-25. Before the quarterfinal, they faced Nottingham Forest, AFC Wimbledon, and Chelsea. Their gameplay against these opponents showcased their strong defense, which stopped their scoring opportunities. In the quarterfinals, Newcastle United faced Brentford with a scoreline of 3-1; they won the match and qualified for the Carabao Cup semi-finals.
Tottenham Hotspur joined the tournament in the third round, and in their journey, they faced high-caliber opponents. They defeated Coventry, Manchester City, and Manchester United with a margin of one-point difference. Tottenham’s victory was a testament to their resilience and skill. In the semi-finals, they will face Liverpool, who are currently ruling the English Premier League 2024-25 with their stellar performance; this might be a big test for Tottenham Hotspur, but let’s hope for the best.
Liverpool, the defending champion, entered the Carabao Cup 2024-25 in the third round, defeating Wes Ham with a dominant score of 5-1. Another followed this triumph in the Round of 16, where they beat Brighton. Overall, they displayed their championship form, with strong performances throughout the rounds. In the quarter-final, they knocked off Southampton by one point. Their journey to the semi-finals has been defined by clinical finishing and solid defensive play.
EFL Cup 2024-25 Semi-Finals Schedule
| Semifinal | 1st Leg | Venue | 2nd Leg | Venue |
| Arsenal vs. Newcastle | January 7, 2025 | Emirates Stadium (London) | February 5, 2025 | St. James’ Park (Newcastle) |
| Tottenham vs. Liverpool | January 8, 2025 | Tottenham Hotspur Stadium (London) | February 6, 2025 | Anfield (Liverpool) |
Carabao Cup 2024-25 Semi-Finals Format
- Two Legs: The semifinals consist of two matches, one hosted at each team’s home stadium. The team achieving the highest combined score from both matches, known as the “aggregate score,” will progress to the final at Wembley on March 16.
- Extra Time and Penalties: If the total score remains tied after the two matches, the teams will play an additional 30 minutes. A penalty shootout will determine the winner if the score remains tied after this period. In earlier rounds, matches that ended in a tie after 90 minutes proceeded directly to penalties without extra time.
- VAR (Video Assistant Referee): VAR will be introduced in both the semifinals and the final. This technology assists referees in making more accurate decisions. While it hasn’t been used in the competition thus far, it will be available since all remaining teams have the necessary technology in their stadiums. Last year, VAR wasn’t used in the semifinals because Middlesbrough did not have the system at their home venue.
EFL Cup 2024-25 Prize Money
- Semi-finalists: £25,000
- Runner-up: £50,000
- Winner: £100,000
Where to Watch the EFL Cup 2024-25 Semi-Finals?
In Argentina, fans can view all the exciting EFL Cup 2024-25 semi-final matches on Disney Plus and ESPN 2. These platforms allow you to enjoy every game from the comfort of your home, ensuring you won’t miss any action.
For viewers in Canada, the matches will be available on DAZN and the DAZN Amazon Channel.
The Carabao Cup 2024-25 semifinals in India will be streamed on FanCode.
In Japan, football enthusiasts can watch the semifinals on DAZN. At the same time, Portugal will air the EFL Cup semi-finals on Sport TV.
The semifinals will be available in the United States on Paramount Plus and the Paramount Plus Amazon Channel.
Fans can watch the matches live in the United Kingdom on ITVX, Now TV, and Sky Sports. These channels provide comprehensive football coverage, giving UK viewers various options to enjoy the semifinals and experience all the exciting moments.
Predictions
Arsenal F.C. vs. Newcastle United F.C.
Newcastle United will play Arsenal at Emirates Stadium (London) on January 7, 2025, in the first leg of the Carabao Cup 2024-25 Semi-finals. First, let’s start with their team news: Arsenal will be without key players for this upcoming semi-final match. Bukayo Saka, who has been their key player, is injured. Ben White and Takehiro Tomiyasu are also unavailable. On the other hand, Jurrien Timber will return to the field after sitting out the Brighton game due to suspension. Ethan Nwaneri, who scored in the last game, is still doubtful with an injury. Arsenal’s depth in the squad will be tested, but they have enough talent to cope with these absences.
Newcastle United also faces a similar dilemma, with several key players unavailable. Fabian Schar and Bruno Guimaraes will miss out, while Nick Pope, Callum Wilson, Emil Krafth, and Jamaal Lascelles’ injuries further deplete their defensive and midfield structures. Sven Botman, who returned from injury for the win against Spurs, is likely to be given a break so that he doesn’t exacerbate his injury. The Newcastle squad will have to make up for the losses of these crucial players.
Head-to-Head Record
| Date | Result | Competition |
| November 2, 2024 | Newcastle 1-0 Arsenal | Premier League |
| February 24, 2024 | Arsenal 4-1 Newcastle | Premier League |
| November 4, 2023 | Newcastle 1-0 Arsenal | Premier League |
| May 7, 2023 | Newcastle 0-2 Arsenal | Premier League |
| January 3, 2023 | Arsenal 0-0 Newcastle | Premier League |
Looking over to their recent form, Arsenal is standing second in the Premier League 2024-25 table with 11 wins, seven draws, and two losses. Eventually, they stand third in their UEFA Champions League with four wins, one draw and one loss. In addition, they were undefeated in their last ten matches by holding a record of seven wins and three draws across the competition. Arsenal heads into this match by ending their prior Premier League match in a 1-1 draw with Brighton. In the 16th minute of the game, Ethan Nwaneri shot the match’s first goal, and they maintained their lead till the end of the first half. However, in the second half, their attack was wholly pressed, and their defense was also unstable, allowing the opponent to shoot their first goal and wrap up the game in a draw.
Newcastle United is currently fifth in the Premier League, with a record of ten wins, five draws, and five losses. Despite starting December 2024 with a mixed result, they showed a phenomenal performance and are now on a six-win streak. During the previous encounter, they faced Tottenham, and by a margin of one point, they continued their victorious path. In the first half of the game, Anthony Gordon and Alexander Isak helped Newcastle United break down Tottenham’s early lead. Further, in the second half, both teams’ defense was more vigorous, which reduced the scoring opportunity and ended up 0-0, and with the early lead, Newcastle United won the game. Therefore, Arsenal’s home advantage, coupled with Newcastle’s absences, might tilt the balance in favor of the Gunners.
Tottenham Hotspur F.C. vs. Liverpool F.C.
On January 8, 2025, we will witness the battle between Tottenham Hotspur and Liverpool at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium (London) in the EFL Cup 2024-25 semifinals. According to their team news, Tottenham is dealing with a crisis due to the injuries. Destiny Udogie, Micky van de Ven, Cristian Romero, and Ben Davies were unavailable, affecting their defensive stability. This was before Richarlison and Mikey Moore were not included in the squad. Guglielmo Vicario, the goalkeeper, was crucial to be absent as well. Radu Dragusin returned from illness, while Antonin Kinsky debuted here.
Liverpool will be without Joe Gomez, who is sidelined by injury. On a positive note, Dominik Szoboszlai’s recovery from illness enhances their midfield choices. Liverpool’s historical dominance over Tottenham could give them a psychological edge in upcoming matches. Despite the absences and challenges, Liverpool’s ability to exploit defensive vulnerabilities has often been a key factor in their victories. This upcoming clash will test Tottenham’s resilience against a team known for its potent attacking prowess.
Head-to-Head Record
| Date | Result | Competition |
| December 22, 2024 | Tottenham Hotspur 3-6 Liverpool | Premier League |
| May 5, 2024 | Liverpool 4-2 Tottenham Hotspur | Premier League |
| September 30, 2023 | Tottenham Hotspur 2-1 Liverpool | Premier League |
| April 30, 2023 | Liverpool 4-3 Tottenham Hotspur | Premier League |
| November 6, 2022 | Tottenham Hotspur 1-2 Liverpool | Premier League |
This English Premier League 2024-25 season was quite a mixed one for Tottenham Hotspur. They secured seven wins, three draws, and ten losses, placing them 12th in the league. They are also participating in the UEFA Europa League, in which they won three, drew two, and lost one match, and they are standing 9th in the table. In addition to that, with their consistent performance, they qualified for the playoffs. Brennan Johnson is the top goal scorer for Tottenham Hotspur; he scored seven goals in the Premier League, one in the EFL Cup, and three in the Europa League. Following him, Dominic Solanke is standing behind the leading scorer for Hotspur, scoring seven goals in the Premier League, two in the EFL Cup, and two in the UEFA Europa League.
Meanwhile, Liverpool has been impressive this season, standing ahead of the EPL table with 14 wins, four draws, and one loss. While unexpectedly, they are also at the top of the Champions League and remain undefeated. Liverpool has been in scintillating form coming into this game. Their 5-0 thumping of West Ham United and a 3-1 win against Leicester City have shown the team’s attacking prowess. The front three, Mohamed Salah, Darwin Núñez, and Luis Díaz, have been lethal in front of goal, scoring for fun. Jurgen Klopp’s side has been resilient and very deep regarding squad strength, with Harvey Elliott and Curtis Jones in midfield. Liverpool’s defense, marshaled by Virgil van Dijk, has also been quite solid and strong for the attacking play. Considering the recent form and performance, Liverpool will have an edge in winning this game.
