Carabao Cup Quarter-Final Tips

The desire to lift the Carabao Cup has intensified for the remaining eight clubs, but first they will have to negotiate through this week’s quarter-finals. Greg Lea previews the matches.

Manchester United v Charlton Athletic

Kick-off: 8pm Tuesday

With all due respect to Charlton, this is a dream quarter-final tie for Manchester United. The Red Devils have not won a trophy since 2017 and are desperate to end their drought as soon as possible. This competition provides them with the best chance of doing so.

Charlton have won back-to-back games under Dean Holden to begin 2023. Nevertheless, the League One outfit will struggle to halt an in-form United, who are seeking their eighth win on the bounce in all competitions.

Manchester United have improved significantly since Cristiano Ronaldo left the club

Erik ten Hag’s squad is in fine form right now and, with the Manchester derby to come this weekend, they will look to get the win wrapped up quickly. I expect a comfortable evening for United.

Prediction: Manchester United to win both halves @ 1.92

Newcastle United v Leicester City

Kick-off: 8pm Tuesday

Newcastle are another club thirsting for silverware after failing to accrue a single piece since 1955. The St James’ Park faithful were disappointed to see their side crash out of the FA Cup at the hands of Sheffield Wednesday at the weekend, but Eddie Howe won’t make the same mistake of naming a weakened team for this one.

Leicester will also be taking this match seriously amid a disappointing Premier League campaign. Newcastle have the top flight’s meanest backline and have drawn their last two games in the division 0-0, so this could be a tight and low-scoring affair.

Prediction: Under 2.5 goals @ 2.06

Nottingham Forest v Wolverhampton Wanderers

Kick-off: 7.45pm Wednesday

Two relegation battlers will put their Premier League problems to one side when they meet at the City Ground on Wednesday.

Forest have enjoyed a decent few weeks post-World Cup and have climbed out of the drop zone after a victory over Southampton last week. They were then thrashed 4-1 by Blackpool in the FA Cup on Saturday, but Forest are a different proposition in front of their own fans.

Wolves have experienced an uptick under manager Julen Lopetegui and, as a result, there is unlikely to be much between these two teams. However, home advantage could prove decisive – especially as Wolves have won just one of their nine away games in the Premier League this season.

Prediction: Nottingham Forest to win @ 2.7

Southampton v Manchester City

Kick-off: 8pm Wednesday

Southampton came from a goal down to beat Crystal Palace in the FA Cup on Saturday. That could prove to be a massive result for coach Nathan Jones, who was already under fire amid a dismal start to his Premier League tenure.

Unfortunately, Manchester City could pile more pressure on the Welshman this week. Pep Guardiola’s side has dominated this competition in recent years and are favourites to triumph once again. After back-to-back clean sheets against Chelsea, I fancy City to keep another attack quiet.

Prediction: Manchester City to keep a clean sheet @ 1.86