EFL Cup Semi-Final Draw, VAR Usage, and Key Details Explained
The EFL Cup semi-final draw is set to take place shortly after the quarter-final clash between Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester United, which is scheduled for Thursday at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. Fans can tune in to BBC Radio 5 Live starting at 19:00 GMT for live coverage, with the draw expected to happen around 22:30 GMT.
When Are the Semi-Finals Played?
The Carabao Cup semi-finals will be contested over two legs, a format that has been in place since the tournament’s inception in 1960. The first leg is scheduled for the week beginning 6 January 2025, while the second leg will take place in the week of 3 February 2025.
While some have suggested transitioning to single-leg ties to ease fixture congestion, EFL chief executive Trevor Birch emphasized that the two-legged format provides “significant financial benefit” to EFL clubs. Any changes would require “significant levels of compensation.”
The final will be held on 16 March 2025 at Wembley Stadium.
Will VAR Be Used in the Semi-Finals?
VAR has not been utilized in the Carabao Cup this season but will be introduced for the semi-final matches and the final. The EFL has the authority to decide VAR usage, and clubs hosting semi-finals must install the technology at their stadiums if required.
Last season, VAR was only introduced in the final due to Middlesbrough, a Championship club, reaching the semi-finals without the technology at their home ground.
Will Extra Time Be Played?
In the Carabao Cup, extra time is not played in matches up to and including the quarter-finals. Instead, penalty shootouts determine the winner if a match ends in a draw at full-time.
However, for the semi-final second leg and the final, extra time is introduced. If the score remains level after 90 minutes, an additional 30 minutes will be played, followed by penalties if necessary.
Prize Money Breakdown
The winners of the Carabao Cup will earn £100,000, while the runners-up receive £50,000. Each semi-finalist will pocket £25,000. Additionally, clubs retain 45% of all match proceeds.