The Carabao Cup, celebrated as one of football's most unpredictable knockout tournaments, consistently delivers drama. This year's second round was no exception, as Manchester United were stunningly eliminated by League 2 minnows Grimsby Town in what will go down as one of the competition's most remarkable shocks.
Top-flight newcomers Sunderland and Leeds also suffered surprise exits against lower-league opponents, giving supporters the feeling that this season's edition could be among the most open and unpredictable in years. With the country's remaining elite clubs now entering the competition, the potential for further surprises is higher than ever. The third round gets underway this week with several fascinating David vs Goliath encounters. And as focus starts to turn to the fourth round draw, here's everything you need to know, courtesy of Express Football.
When is the Carabao Cup fourth-round draw?The 2025 Carabao Cup fourth round draw will take place on Wednesday, September 24. It will be shown live immediately after that night's third round contest between Port Vale and Arsenal, which has an 8pm BST kick-off.
The broadcast of the draw is likely to start around 10pm, although the exact time will depend on the match length - as penalties could push it back.
How can I watch the Carabao Cup fourth-round draw?Supporters can watch the draw unfold live on Sky Sports Main Event and Sky Sports Football. Streaming access will be available through the Sky Go app for subscribers, while NOW TV offers a day-pass option for non-subscribers. Sky Sports' website and YouTube channel will later host highlights and a full replay.
Coverage of Port Vale vs Arsenal begins at 7pm, with the fourth round draw happening shortly after the final whistle.
The Carabao Cup fourth round draw will feature the 16 sides who make it through the third round. Here's a look at the teams still in the hat - and the ball numbers to watch out for.
Sheffield Wednesday / Grimsby Town
Brentford / Aston Villa
Crystal Palace / Millwall
Swansea City / Nottingham Forest
Barnsley / Brighton
Burnley / Cardiff City
Fulham / Cambridge United
Lincoln City / Chelsea
Wigan Athletic / Wycombe Wanderers
Wolves / Everton
Wrexham / Reading
Liverpool / Southampton
Huddersfield Town / Manchester City
Tottenham / Doncaster Rovers
Newcastle / Bradford City
Port Vale / Arsenal

The fourth round ties are scheduled for the week commencing Monday, October 27, 2025. Most matches will take place in the evenings of Tuesday, October 28, or Wednesday, October 29.
Specific dates and kick-off times will be announced after the draw. All fixtures are single-leg affairs, hosted at the stadium of the team drawn first.
When will the Carabao Cup third-round fixtures be completed?Three of the third round games are set for Tuesday, September 16, with another on Wednesday, September 17. The majority, however, will be played the following week on Tuesday, September 23, and Wednesday, September 24.
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