West Ham’s Carabao Cup dream was was short-lived following the announcement of the EFL Cup draw late tonight. True to West Ham’s tradition, just after savouring their victory over Arsenal, David Moyes’ team was met with disappointment as they learned they would be facing Liverpool at Anfield.
Whilst I typically steer clear of conspiracy theories, the outcome of this draw is highly predictable, as it had been widely anticipated in various texts, emails, and WhatsApp messages I received from mates following our 3-1 win against Arsenal. Given Liverpool’s formidable record at home, this draw presents one of the most challenging away fixtures in domestic football. To put it bluntly . . . Liverpool are almost invincible at home.
It’s hard to see this draw as fair compensation for David Moyes and his team’s exceptional performance in dismantling Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal side at The London Stadium, with standout displays from players like Jarrod Bowen and Mohammed Kudus.
However, West Ham aren’t without hope. The quarter-final match is expected to fall between Liverpool’s games against Manchester United and Arsenal. Hopefully they’ll be knackered or have bigger fish to fry.
In other news from the Carabao Cup draw, the matchups appeared to be somewhat more favourable. Chelsea, after securing a comfortable victory over Blackburn, are set to face a tougher challenge in December when they host Newcastle at Stamford Bridge.
Intriguingly, Port Vale and Middlesbrough, both clubs outside the Premier League, are still in the Carabao Cup, and at least one of them will advance to the last four, as they’ve been drawn against each other. The other quarter-final clash will see Everton hosting Fulham.