The English League Cup has reached the quarter-final stage, and this week, after the final two matches on Wednesday night, we will know which four teams will advance to the semi-finals. The draw has set up intriguing matchups, with four big Premier League clubs facing smaller sides, including Championship outfit Bristol City taking on Manchester United.
Many expect the top clubs to secure their places in the semi-finals, which could set up two mouth-watering matchups. However, as always with cup football, surprises are possible, and the underdogs will be eager to upset the odds and edge closer to a Wembley final. A victory this week would put them just two games away from a dream appearance at the famous stadium.
Two of the games will be televised, providing plenty of entertainment for those watching from home. The clash between Bristol City and Manchester United is expected to attract the most attention. The Championship club is enjoying a superb season, currently sitting in third place and playing an attractive brand of football. This match represents a significant challenge for them, but they will relish the opportunity, and anything can happen on a cold December night. With Manchester United likely to rest some key players, the gap between the teams might not be as wide as it appears.
With four exciting games, two on television, and numerous betting opportunities, this week promises to deliver plenty of action for English football fans.
Our Predictions
Tuesday
- Arsenal vs West Ham – Predicted Winner: Arsenal
- Leicester vs Manchester City – Predicted Winner: Manchester City
Wednesday
- Chelsea vs Bournemouth – Predicted Winner: Chelsea
- Bristol City vs Manchester United – Predicted Winner: Manchester United
What Games are on TV?
Leicester vs Manchester City – Tuesday 19:45, Sky Sports Football & Sky Sports Main Event
This game could be intriguing depending on the lineup Manchester City decides to field. With the busy Christmas schedule ahead, it is expected that Pep Guardiola will rest several first-team stars. However, City’s squad depth means that even their second-string players are capable of performing at a high level, and they will be eager to prove themselves.
Leicester might sense an opportunity here if they play their strongest XI, but the quality and morale within the City camp remain high. Even with a rotated squad, City should have enough to control the game and secure their place in the semi-finals. Expect a competitive match, but one that sees City come out on top.
Bristol City vs Manchester United – Wednesday 20:00, Sky Sports Football & Sky Sports Main Event
The lone Championship team remaining, Bristol City, will aim to pull off a giant-killing when they host Manchester United. While United are expected to rest several key players, Bristol City will take this game seriously, fielding their strongest lineup.
Bristol City have been impressive this season, sitting third in the Championship and boasting one of the best attacking records in the league. Playing at home gives them an extra boost, and they are likely to come out with an attacking mindset, hoping to catch United off guard. This could set the stage for an open and entertaining game.
Despite the spirited challenge expected from Bristol City, Manchester United’s quality and depth should be enough to see them through. Even with some rested players, United’s squad has the talent to overcome the Championship side. Fans can look forward to a dynamic match with plenty of action, but the Premier League side is likely to advance.
Betting Odds
All odds are correct at the time of writing.
A popular choice among punters this week is the four-team accumulator on all four big clubs to win their matches. This accumulator is likely to be very popular, especially as it comes just before the festive season, providing a chance to win some extra cash for holiday spending or to build up a betting bankroll for the busy period ahead. Here are the best prices available:
- Arsenal 4/7
- Manchester City 1/2
- Chelsea 1/3
- Manchester United 4/11
All four of these clubs are expected to feature in many bets this week, with the potential for a solid return if they all win.
For those seeking more adventurous bets, Bristol City are priced at 9/1 to upset Manchester United in Wednesday’s live match. Although United are favorites, those watching the game might be tempted by the long odds on a potential surprise from the Championship side.
If you believe Leicester can defeat Manchester City, they are available at 13/2 to secure the win and make it to the semi-finals. With City likely to rest some players, this price could attract interest, especially among those who plan to watch the game on Tuesday night.
The two other underdogs, West Ham and Bournemouth, face tough away fixtures in London. West Ham are priced at 6/1 to beat Arsenal on Tuesday, and with the Gunners often using their young players in this competition, some may consider it worth a bet. Bournemouth, meanwhile, are 11/1 to upset Chelsea in what appears to be an uphill battle for them.
Betting Offers
Correct Score Betting with Bet365
If you plan to bet on the correct score in any of the four quarter-final matches, be sure to take advantage of Bet365’s money-back offer. If the match finishes 0-0, Bet365 will refund your correct score bet as real cash, provided you placed the bet with your own funds. This offer is perfect for those looking to cover themselves in case of a goalless draw.
10% Acca Bonus with Coral
The accumulator on the four favorites is likely to be extremely popular this week. If you place this bet, make sure you do so with Coral, where you can get a 10% bonus on your winnings if all four selections win. This offer applies to accumulators of £2 or more, adding an extra incentive to back the favorites with Coral.
In-Play Odds Boost with Ladbrokes
If you are looking to place in-play bets during the televised quarter-finals, Ladbrokes offers in-play price boosts for the Leicester vs Manchester City and Bristol City vs Manchester United games. These boosts could provide enhanced value, so it’s worth checking out Ladbrokes’ offerings if you plan to place a live bet during these matches.
