Could Welsh Teams Make More History in the EFL Cup Draw?

The Carabao Cup has reached an exciting milestone in the 2025-26 season, with Wrexham, Cardiff City, and Swansea City making history by being the first three Welsh clubs to progress to the last 16 of the competition. This achievement marks a significant moment, given that in the previous 65 years, only once have more than one Welsh team reached this stage. As the fourth-round draw approaches, all eyes will be on these clubs as they aim for further success.

Last updated: 19 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• Wrexham, Cardiff, and Swansea have all qualified for the Carabao Cup fourth round, a first for Welsh teams.
• Swansea staged a remarkable comeback against Nottingham Forest, scoring two stoppage-time goals.
• Cardiff City defeated Burnley to secure their spot, maintaining a strong season so far.
• Wrexham's victory over Reading marks their first fourth-round appearance since the 1977-78 season.
• The fourth-round draw will take place on Wednesday night after Arsenal's match against Port Vale.

A Historic Achievement for Welsh Football

The Carabao Cup, known as the League Cup until its rebranding in 2012, has long been a platform for clubs to showcase their talents and aim for silverware. This season, Welsh football has reached an unprecedented level of success in the competition. For the first time in its history, three clubs from Wales—Cardiff City, Swansea City, and Wrexham—will compete in the fourth round. This remarkable achievement is a testament to the growing competitiveness of Welsh football on the national stage.

A Look Back at the Carabao Cup

The League Cup was established in 1960, providing clubs from across England and Wales the opportunity to compete for a prestigious trophy. Historically, Welsh teams have struggled in this competition, with limited success. In the 65 previous editions, only once did more than one Welsh team reach the last 16, specifically during the 1976-77 season when Swansea City and Wrexham made it to this stage.

The 2025-26 season has turned the tide for Welsh football, showcasing three clubs that have not only advanced through the rounds but have also done so against formidable opponents.

Road to the Fourth Round

Swansea City's Remarkable Comeback

Swansea City was the first of the three clubs to secure their place in the fourth round. In a thrilling encounter against Nottingham Forest, the Swans faced a daunting 2-0 deficit until they mounted a spectacular comeback. Two stoppage-time goals clinched a 3-2 victory for Swansea, highlighting their resilience and tenacity. Prior to this match, Swansea had dispatched Crawley Town and Plymouth Argyle, showcasing their determination to make a mark in this year’s competition.

Cardiff City’s Strong Performance

Cardiff City followed suit with a commendable performance against Burnley, a team currently competing in the Premier League. Goals from Joel Colwill and Callum Robinson secured a 2-1 win for the Bluebirds. This victory is particularly impressive considering Cardiff has lost only one match throughout the entire season up to this point. Earlier in the tournament, they convincingly overcame Swindon Town and Cheltenham Town, demonstrating their capability to take on higher-tier teams.

Wrexham’s Resurgence

Wrexham’s progression to the fourth round is notable as it marks their first appearance at this stage since the 1977-78 season. The team, managed by Phil Parkinson, claimed a 2-0 victory over Reading, with Nathan Broadhead scoring both goals. This win follows their earlier triumphs against Championship sides Hull City and Preston North End, signalling a strong resurgence for the club that has been revitalised in recent years.

Previous Achievements of Welsh Clubs

While this season has been historic, it's worth reflecting on the previous successes of Welsh clubs in the Carabao Cup. Swansea City remains the most successful Welsh side in the competition, having lifted the trophy in the 2012-13 season after a memorable victory over Bradford City at Wembley. They have reached the fourth round eight times in total.

Cardiff City has made it to the fourth round six times, with their most notable run occurring in the 2011-12 season, when they reached the final but narrowly lost to Liverpool in a penalty shootout. Wrexham has reached this stage four times, with their best performance being two quarter-final appearances in the late 1970s. Newport County, the fourth Welsh club in the EFL, made their only last-16 appearance in the 2020-21 season, but were eliminated by Newcastle United in a penalty shootout.

The Fourth Round Draw

The excitement continues as Cardiff, Swansea, and Wrexham await the fourth-round draw, scheduled for around 22:00 BST on Wednesday. This draw will determine their next opponents, and there is a chance they could face one of the seven Premier League clubs already confirmed in the next stage, including Liverpool, Chelsea, and Tottenham Hotspur. Additionally, the possibility of a Welsh derby adds an extra layer of anticipation to the draw.

Potential Matchups

As the fourth-round draw approaches, the prospect of facing heavyweights from the Premier League looms large. The inclusion of teams like Arsenal, Manchester City, and others could present significant challenges for the Welsh clubs. However, the momentum gained from their previous victories could bolster their confidence as they look to upset the odds once again.

Looking Ahead

The journey of Wrexham, Cardiff, and Swansea in the Carabao Cup serves as an inspiration for Welsh football, showcasing the potential for success and the growing competitiveness of clubs from the region. As they prepare for the next round, fans and players alike will be hoping for favourable draws and further opportunities to create history. The fourth round promises excitement, and all three clubs are poised to make their mark.

FAQs

What is the Carabao Cup?

The Carabao Cup, originally known as the League Cup, is an annual knockout football competition in England and Wales, featuring clubs from multiple tiers of the football league system. It was first introduced in 1960.

How many Welsh clubs are in the fourth round of the Carabao Cup?

This season, three Welsh clubs—Wrexham, Cardiff City, and Swansea City—have reached the fourth round, marking a historic achievement for Welsh football.

When is the fourth-round draw for the Carabao Cup?

The fourth-round draw is scheduled to take place on Wednesday evening at around 22:00 BST, following the conclusion of Arsenal's match against Port Vale.

Have Welsh clubs had success in the Carabao Cup before?

Yes, Swansea City won the Carabao Cup in the 2012-13 season, while Cardiff City reached the final in 2011-12. Wrexham has also had notable runs in the competition, reaching the quarter-finals twice.

What are the potential matchups for the Welsh clubs in the fourth round?

The Welsh clubs could face formidable opponents from the Premier League, including teams like Liverpool, Chelsea, and Manchester City, depending on the draw.

As the fourth round approaches, it will be fascinating to see how these Welsh sides perform against potentially tougher opposition and whether they can continue to make history in the Carabao Cup. #CarabaoCup #WelshFootball #EFL