Carabao Cup Fourth-Round Draw: Liverpool and Manchester City Face Tough Away Tests

The holders of the Carabao Cup, Liverpool, are set for a tricky fourth-round tie away at Brighton, while Tottenham will host Manchester City in one of the most eye-catching fixtures of the draw. With the competition intensifying, several Premier League giants face challenging tests as the race for silverware heats up.

Liverpool’s Title Defense Faces Brighton Test

Liverpool, last season's Carabao Cup winners, have a tough task as they travel to the south coast to face an in-form Brighton side. The Seagulls, known for their high-tempo football and under the stewardship of Roberto De Zerbi, will aim to upset Jurgen Klopp's side, who are eager to defend their title and secure another trip to Wembley.

Tottenham Host Manchester City in Showdown Clash

Tottenham will be eager to make a statement as they take on Pep Guardiola's Manchester City. The North Londoners have made significant strides under new management this season and will see this as an opportunity to showcase their progress. However, City, with their star-studded lineup and hunger for domestic success, will look to overpower Spurs in what promises to be a captivating encounter.

Manchester United Welcome Leicester to Old Trafford

Elsewhere, Manchester United will host Leicester City at Old Trafford in an all-Premier League affair. Erik ten Hag's United side, desperate to add silverware this season, will not take the Foxes lightly, despite their relegation to the Championship. Leicester, however, could view this as a chance to show they still have what it takes to challenge top-flight opposition.

Aston Villa to Face Crystal Palace in Another All-Premier League Matchup

In another intriguing top-flight clash, Aston Villa will welcome Crystal Palace to Villa Park. Both teams are enjoying competitive seasons, and this tie promises to deliver a fascinating contest between two sides looking to make a deep cup run.

Championship Trio Aim to Upset Premier League Foes

Three Championship sides remain in the competition, with tricky fixtures on the horizon. Sheffield Wednesday travel to Brentford, while Stoke City make the trip south to face Southampton. Preston North End, meanwhile, have drawn Arsenal at Deepdale, setting the stage for a potential giant-killing in front of their home crowd.

AFC Wimbledon’s Underdog Dream

AFC Wimbledon, the lowest-ranked side still involved, have a delayed third-round tie against Premier League Newcastle United, following the postponement of their original clash due to flooding at Cherry Records Stadium. Their rescheduled match on October 1st will be held at Newcastle’s St James’ Park. The victor will host Chelsea in the fourth round, offering a dream opportunity for Wimbledon or a tantalizing contest between the two Premier League sides.

Fixture List for Fourth Round

• Brentford v Sheffield Wednesday
• Southampton v Stoke City
• Tottenham v Manchester City
• AFC Wimbledon/Newcastle United v Chelsea
• Manchester United v Leicester City
• Brighton v Liverpool
• Preston North End v Arsenal
• Aston Villa v Crystal Palace

With the fourth-round ties scheduled to be played in the week commencing October 28th, football fans have much to look forward to as the Carabao Cup promises yet more drama and potential upsets.