Manchester City have been handed a blockbuster Carabao Cup semi-final clash against current holders Newcastle United, setting up a two-legged showdown that will stretch across January and early February 2026.
The draw was made shortly after City sealed their place in the last four with a 2–0 win over Brentford, continuing a strong domestic cup run and keeping alive hopes of lifting the League Cup for the first time since 2020/21, when the club claimed the trophy for an eighth time.
Cherki and Savinho send City into the last four
City’s quarter-final night against Brentford delivered exactly what knockout football demands: control, clarity, and clinical finishing.
- Rayan Cherki broke the deadlock to put City in front.
- Savinho then added a second to settle the contest and secure City’s spot in the semi-finals.
It was the type of performance City fans have come to expect in cup ties — composed in possession, organised out of it, and decisive when the big moments arrived. With a place in the last four on the line, City stayed patient and made their chances count.
The tie everyone will be watching: Newcastle vs City
Newcastle’s status as defending champions adds even more edge to this semi-final. City won’t just be chasing a final appearance — they’ll be trying to knock out the team currently wearing the crown.
There’s also a clear tactical storyline to this matchup. Over two legs, it won’t be about a single night of momentum. It will be about:
- Managing the away atmosphere at St James’ Park
- Staying disciplined across 180 minutes
- Taking advantage of home comfort at the Etihad in the return match
- Avoiding costly moments, because semi-finals punish mistakes more than any earlier round
When are the semi-final legs?
The Carabao Cup semi-finals are played over two legs, which makes preparation and squad management even more important.
- First leg: Week commencing 12 January 2026 — St James’ Park
- Second leg: Week commencing 2 February 2026 — Etihad Stadium
Exact kick-off dates and times are still to be confirmed, but the schedule already gives a clear picture: City will need to peak twice — once away, once at home — to book a place in the final.
City’s road to the semi-finals
City’s run to the last four has had a steady rhythm, with the team stepping up each time the challenge increased:
- 2–0 vs Huddersfield Town (League One)
- 3–1 vs Swansea City (Championship)
- 2–0 vs Brentford (Premier League)
That progression matters. Cup competitions are built on problem-solving: different opponents, different styles, different demands. City have navigated it so far, and the reward is a semi-final tie with a major prize within reach.
Why this semi-final matters
Reaching the semi-finals isn’t just another milestone — it’s a real opportunity.
- It’s City’s first League Cup semi-final since 2020/21
- It places them two matches away from a major trophy
- It creates a high-stakes test against one of the toughest opponents possible in this competition
The League Cup can set the tone for a season. A strong semi-final performance can boost confidence, sharpen focus, and give the squad a trophy target that feels immediate.
Full Carabao Cup semi-final draw
The other semi-final on the bracket is set to be:
- Chelsea vs Arsenal or Crystal Palace
- Newcastle vs Manchester City
That means the possible final combinations are already mouth-watering — but City’s job is simple: beat Newcastle over two legs first.
What happens next
For now, all attention turns to confirmation of the precise match dates and kick-off times. Once those are locked in, City will be able to fully plan for the two-leg rhythm — rotation, travel, recovery, and the fine margins that decide semi-finals.
One thing is certain: City are back in the last four, and the route to Wembley (or the final venue) now runs straight through the holders.