Carabao Cup semi-final draw as Arsenal, Newcastle and Chelsea learn path to Wembley

Just five teams remain in the hunt for the first domestic silverware of the season, with Arsenal and Crystal Palace also in the hat ahead of their tie next week

The Carabao Cup semi-final ties have been confirmed as five Premier League teams remain in contention to lift the trophy at Wembley early next year. The draw pits Chelsea against the winner of Arsenal vs Crystal Palace, while last season's winners Newcastle will take on Manchester City.

Chelsea booked their place in the final four after fending off a valiant comeback attempt at League One Cardiff City on Tuesday night. The Club World Cup champions took the lead in the Welsh capital, before the Bluebirds. who are full of confidence in the third tier, levelled proceedings.

But hopes of a famous victory in front of their own supporters were dashed when Pedro Neto scored the winner. Enzo Maresca's Blues are now just two rounds away from winning their third trophy in less than 12 months.

Manchester City, who have won the tournament six times since the 2013/14 season, booked their place in the semis with a 2-0 win over Brentford at The Etihad on Wednesday. Pep Guardiola will be looking to win this competition for the FIFTH time and will have to overcome holders Newcastle in a two-legged tie to return to Wembley yet again.

The Magpies ended their long trophy drought by winning last season's edition of the Carabao Cup, beating Liverpool in memorable scenes. Eddie Howe's side could ensure their next wait is just a year after knocking out Fulham with a stoppage-time winner.

Arsenal and Crystal Palace were both included in the draw conducted by Jamie Redknapp and Shay Given. They were supposed to play this week, but were forced to reschedule due to Palace's commitments in the Conference League.

The Eagles play KuPS at Selhurst Park on Thursday night and with European fixtures taking precedent over domestic matters, organisers had no choice but to delay their encounter until next week (December 23).

The semi-final stage also sees ties extend to two legs, with the first to be played week commencing January 12 and the second three weeks later on February 2.

It will then be all eyes on Wembley for the final on March 22 when one team will be the first to lift silverware this season.

Carabao Cup semi-final draw in full

Chelsea vs Arsenal or Crystal Palace

Newcastle vs Manchester City

Join our new WhatsApp community and receive your daily dose of Mirror Football content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.