The lack of European competition has elevated the EFL Cup to a significant priority for Chelsea this season. The Blues, guided by Xabi Alonso, have claimed two impressive victories, swiftly dispatching Luton Town and delivering an extraordinary performance against Leeds, where they emerged victorious with a staggering score of 6-3, featuring a goal every five and a half minutes in the second half.
Remarkably, Chelsea have not lifted the trophy since 2015, having fallen short in three finals since then. The team now stands just three opponents away from the final at Wembley in March.
The draw for the fourth round of the EFL Cup is set to take place on Wednesday, 16 September, around 22:30 UK time. The event will be hosted by Pien Molensteen, with Jamie Redknapp and Ashley Young pulling the balls. Fans can catch the draw live on Sky Sports, immediately following the Manchester United versus Brighton match. Unlike the previous round, this draw will be completely open with no restrictions.
Following last week’s matches, places in the fourth round have already been secured by Chelsea, Sunderland, Crystal Palace, Bournemouth, Newcastle United, and League One's Bradford City. Ten more teams will determine their fate this week.
Remaining third-round fixtures:
Tuesday, 15 September:
- Peterborough United vs Barnsley
- West Ham United vs Fulham
- Liverpool vs Tottenham
- Ipswich Town vs Arsenal
- Reading vs Brentford
Wednesday, 16 September:
- Everton vs Wolverhampton
- Fleetwood Town vs Sheffield United
- Manchester United vs Brighton
- Coventry City vs Aston Villa
Thursday, 17 September:
- Manchester City vs Norwich City
Matches for the fourth round are scheduled for 27, 28, and 29 October. This week could be a serious test for Alonso, with Chelsea hosting Tottenham this Saturday, followed by a clash with Manchester United at Stamford Bridge on Halloween. Both of these teams could potentially emerge as Chelsea's opponents in the cup draw.
