Carabao Cup Third Round Draw: Key Dates, Teams, and How to Watch

Carabao Cup third round excitement is building as the remaining Premier League teams enter the competition, setting the stage for one of the most dramatic phases of the English football season. With heavyweights like Manchester City, Arsenal, Liverpool, and defending champions Newcastle United joining the fray, all eyes are on the draw that will shape the next step in this year’s EFL Cup.

When Is the Carabao Cup Third Round Draw?

The much-anticipated Carabao Cup third round draw will take place on Wednesday, August 27, 2025. Fans can tune in at 10:00 pm BST (5:00 pm ET), right after Manchester United’s second-round clash against Grimsby Town, which kicks off at 8:00 pm BST. This timing ensures immediate post-match drama as the draw reveals the next matchups.

How to Watch the Carabao Cup Third Round Draw Live

UK viewers can catch the draw live on Sky Sports Football, Sky Sports Main Event, and Sky Sports Ultra HDR. In the United States, Paramount+ will stream both the Manchester United match and the draw, offering fans multiple ways to stay updated. If you’re looking for more news and updates throughout the EFL Cup season, visit for more news.

Carabao Cup Third Round Format and Draw Procedure

The third round draw brings a new wave of excitement as a total of 32 teams participate. The lineup includes the 23 winners from the second round and nine Premier League clubs competing in European competitions, namely Manchester City, Arsenal, Liverpool, Aston Villa, Tottenham Hotspur, Chelsea, Nottingham Forest, Crystal Palace, and Newcastle United.

Before the main draw, a pre-draw will decide whether the eight European entrants will be given home advantage or will play away. The main draw then involves two pots: one for the European teams and another for the remaining 24 clubs. The first eight ties are set by alternating picks from each pot, considering the home or away status from the pre-draw. The last eight fixtures are drawn exclusively from the non-European teams’ pot. Notably, from this stage on, the competition is no longer split geographically, meaning teams could travel anywhere in the country.

Which Teams Feature in the Carabao Cup Third Round?

Some of the biggest names in English football will feature in the Carabao Cup third round. With nine Premier League clubs joining, the competition intensifies. Teams like Manchester City, Arsenal, and Liverpool are always strong contenders, but the presence of last season’s champions Newcastle United adds another layer of intrigue. The full list of official ball numbers and participating clubs will be confirmed on the day of the draw.

Carabao Cup Third Round Match Dates

The Carabao Cup third round matches are scheduled over a two-week period to accommodate clubs with European commitments. The initial fixtures will commence the week beginning September 15, 2025. However, if teams are involved in European competitions at that time, their games will be moved to the following week, starting September 22, 2025. This scheduling ensures that all teams can compete at their strongest.

Broadcast Options for Global Fans

UK fans will have comprehensive coverage through Sky Sports, while U.S. viewers can stream the action live on Paramount+. For those seeking complete coverage and the latest football updates, check out for more news.

What to Expect from the Carabao Cup Third Round

With the remaining Premier League giants entering, the Carabao Cup third round promises fierce competition and the possibility of shock results. The knockout format ensures every game is a must-watch, as lower-league teams aim to pull off giant-killings against England’s elite clubs. The inclusion of a pre-draw to determine home advantage for European teams also adds a strategic twist that could impact the outcomes.

Opinion: Why This Draw Matters

The Carabao Cup third round is always a pivotal point in the English domestic season. It offers fans a unique blend of top-tier clashes and classic underdog stories. With the draw’s transparent format and the presence of Europe’s best, anticipation is higher than ever. It’s a fantastic showcase of depth and unpredictability in English football. Whether you’re backing an established powerhouse or dreaming of a lower-league upset, this round embodies the spirit and excitement that makes cup competitions so special.