Major teams progress to quarterfinal EFL Cup

Tottenham edges past Manchester City

In a captivating EFL Cup fixture, Tottenham Hotspur overcame Manchester City with a hard-fought 2-1 victory in London. Despite City's dominance in possession, Spurs capitalized on their chances, though at a cost, with Micky Van de Ven forced off after just 15 minutes with an apparent hamstring injury.

The hosts took an early lead through Timo Werner, who slotted home past Stefan Ortega. Pape Sarr extended Spurs' advantage, capitalizing on a rare lapse in City’s defense. Although City controlled much of the match and pulled one back via Matheus Nunes just before halftime, their relentless push for an equalizer was in vain. Tottenham defended resolutely, booking their spot in the quarterfinals and eliminating City from the tournament.

Van Nistelrooij’s United era begins with convincing win over Leicester

Ruud Van Nistelrooij’s debut as Manchester United’s interim manager was a resounding success, with his side securing a 5-2 victory over Leicester City. Following Erik Ten Hag’s departure, Van Nistelrooij made key changes to the lineup, including the additions of Victor Lindelöf, Manuel Ugarte, and Joshua Zirkzee.

United quickly asserted control, racing to a 2-0 lead thanks to a stunning strike from Casemiro and a goal from Alejandro Garnacho. Leicester responded through Bilal El Khannouss, but further first-half goals from Bruno Fernandes and another by Casemiro put United firmly in control. Conor Coady managed to pull one back for Leicester before the break, but Fernandes sealed the scoreline in the second half with a composed finish, sending United to the quarterfinals.

Arsenal advances past Preston in Setford's debut

Arsenal comfortably dispatched Preston North End with a 3-0 win, featuring a standout performance from debutant goalkeeper Tommy Setford. The English-Dutch youngster, kept a clean sheet at Deepdale. Goals from Gabriel Jesus and Ethan Nwaneri in the first half and a second-half goal from Kai Havertz secured Arsenal’s place in the quarterfinals.

Newcastle stuns Chelsea with early blitz

Newcastle United delivered a decisive 2-0 victory over Chelsea. The Magpies took control midway through the first half, scoring through Alexander Isak and benefiting from an own goal by Chelsea’s Axel Disasi. Despite Chelsea’s efforts to rally, they struggled without key players Noni Madueke and Cole Palmer. Newcastle’s solid defense ensured their quarterfinal berth.

Liverpool's Gakpo shines in win over Brighton

Cody Gakpo's brace lifted Liverpool to a 3-2 win over Brighton & Hove Albion in a thrilling contest. After a balanced first half, Gakpo scored twice in the second, securing Liverpool’s place in the next round. Brighton kept the pressure on with goals from Simon Adingra and Tariq Lamptey, but Liverpool held on to advance.

Quarterfinal draw brings anticipated Clashes

The quarterfinal draw has heightened the excitement, with major clubs set to face off in intense matchups:

• Arsenal will meet Crystal Palace.
• Newcastle United faces Brentford.
• Liverpool takes on Southampton.
• Tottenham Hotspur is set for a showdown with Manchester United.

With these intriguing fixtures, the EFL Cup quarterfinals promise thrilling encounters as top teams vie for a spot in the semifinals.