In this preview, we take a closer look at the eagerly awaited second-leg EFL Cup semi-finals, set for Wednesday and Thursday. With both ties intricately poised, here are our thoughts and betting insights for you to consider.
First, let’s take a look at the outright markets. With four teams remaining, Liverpool are the 5/4 favourites, despite trailing in the first leg, followed by Newcastle United at 7/4. Tottenham Hotspur are priced at 5/1, with Arsenal available at an enticing 15/2.
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WEDNESDAY
NEWCASTLE UNITED v ARSENAL – Click here to bet
Newcastle United will be looking to book their place in the EFL Carabao Cup final when they host Arsenal at St James’ Park on Wednesday. The Magpies hold a crucial advantage heading into this second leg, having secured a vital 2-0 victory at the Emirates Stadium in the first encounter. Eddie Howe’s men will now be aiming to complete the job in front of their home fans, but recent form raises concerns.
Newcastle suffered a disappointing 2-1 defeat to Fulham at home over the weekend, marking their second consecutive loss at St James’ Park. Despite sitting 5th in the Premier League standings, they will need to put those setbacks behind them and focus on maintaining their defensive solidity against a resurgent Arsenal side. With their first-ever EFL Cup triumph within reach, the Magpies have all the motivation needed to see this through.
Arsenal, meanwhile, arrive in the North East quietly confident of overturning their two-goal deficit. Mikel Arteta’s side have hit top form in recent weeks, going unbeaten in their last six matches across all competitions, winning five and drawing one. Their most recent outing saw them dismantle reigning Premier League champions Manchester City in a ruthless 5-1 victory over the weekend, reminding Newcastle of what their current frontline can do when firing on all cylinders.
The Gunners, currently sitting 2nd in the Premier League, will also draw inspiration from their history in this competition. As two-time winners of the English League Cup, they will be eager to add to their silverware collection. However, Arsenal will be aware of their recent struggles at St James’ Park, failing to secure a positive result in their last two visits to Newcastle.
Head-to-Head
Newcastle won the first leg 2-0 at the Emirates and are unbeaten in three of their last four meetings with Arsenal at St James’ Park, including a 1-0 victory for the Geordies earlier this season in the league.
Betting
Newcastle United 85/40
Draw 27/10
Arsenal 12/10
Verdict
Despite trailing from the first leg, Arsenal look the team to back here. With the Gunners hitting their stride at just the right time and Newcastle’s recent struggles at home, I believe Mikel Arteta’s side can heap more misery on the Geordie faithful as they push for a place in the final.
Suggested Bet: Full Time Result, Arsenal at 12/10
THURSDAY
LIVERPOOL v TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR – Click here to bet
Liverpool will look to secure their place in the EFL Cup final when they host Tottenham Hotspur at Anfield on Thursday. Spurs hold a narrow 1-0 advantage from the first leg, but as ten-time League Cup winners, the Reds will be determined to overturn the deficit and reach their third final in four seasons.
Currently top of the Premier League, Liverpool enter this clash in solid form. Arne Slot’s side have won five of their last seven matches across all competitions, including a composed 2-0 victory away to Bournemouth over the weekend. With their focus now shifting to the Carabao Cup, they will look to leverage their formidable home record to overturn Spurs’ lead.
Tottenham Hotspur may have a slight edge, but concerns remain over their overall form. Ange Postecoglou’s men are struggling in the Premier League, sitting 14th in the table. However, a much-needed 2-0 win over Brentford on Sunday ended a four-game losing streak, offering a timely confidence boost.
With pressure mounting on Postecoglou, this semi-final presents an opportunity to silence critics and push Spurs within touching distance of their first EFL Cup triumph since 2008. That said, Anfield has been an unhappy hunting ground for Tottenham, with just four draws and ten defeats in their last 14 visits across all competitions.
Head-to-Head
Tottenham won the first leg 1-0, but Liverpool have historically dominated this fixture, winning four of the last six meetings, including a 4-2 victory in their most recent encounter at Anfield.
Betting
Liverpool 1/4
Draw 6/1
Tottenham 9/1
Verdict
Spurs may have found their way back to winning form on the domestic front over the weekend, but it’s unlikely to have the desired impact on their trip to Anfield this week. At home, Liverpool are a different beast, and with a strong record against Spurs, I expect the Reds to comfortably see off a Tottenham side that has looked vulnerable throughout the season.
Suggested Bet: Handicap, Liverpool -1.5 at 8/13
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Note: All prices correct at the time of writing but are subject to change
