How to Watch the EFL Cup Quarter-Final Draw: Mark Chapman with Jamie Redknapp and Shay Given on Sky Sports Tonight

The English League Cup, officially known as the Carabao Cup, reaches a thrilling stage tonight with the quarter-final draw live on Sky Sports channels at approximately 22:35 UK time. Fans across the UK can tune into Sky Sports Main Event HD, Sky Sports Main Event UHD, or Sky Sports Premier League HD to catch presenter Mark Chapman alongside pundits Jamie Redknapp and Shay Given as they conduct the draw following key quarter-final action. This prime-time broadcast on December 17, 2025, promises expert analysis and excitement as the competition edges closer to the semi-finals.

Sky Sports has been the go-to destination for Carabao Cup coverage this season, delivering comprehensive live matches and draws to British viewers. Tonight's programming builds on the channel's tradition of high-quality football presentation, with the draw expected shortly after the Manchester City vs Brentford quarter-final, which kicks off at 19:30 GMT. For those unable to access Sky subscriptions, a stream is available on the Sky Sports Football YouTube channel, ensuring wider accessibility for fans eager to see which teams advance to the last four.

Mark Chapman, the seasoned presenter at the helm, brings his wealth of experience from BBC and Sky Sports to guide the evening's proceedings. Known for his engaging style and deep football knowledge, Chapman has covered major tournaments including the Premier League, FA Cup, and international fixtures. His career highlights include anchoring live coverage of England's World Cup campaigns and numerous Champions League nights, making him a trusted voice for British audiences tuning into cup competitions.

Joining Chapman are two football legends: Jamie Redknapp and Shay Given. Redknapp, son of legendary manager Harry Redknapp, enjoyed a distinguished playing career primarily with Liverpool, where he made over 300 appearances and won the League Cup in 1995. Transitioning seamlessly to punditry, he has become a staple on Sky Sports, offering incisive analysis on shows like Monday Night Football. His expertise in midfield dynamics and tactical breakdowns will be invaluable as the draw unfolds, providing insights into potential semi-final matchups.

Shay Given, the former Newcastle United and Republic of Ireland goalkeeper, adds a defensive perspective with his vast experience. Given played over 450 games for Newcastle, earning a reputation as one of the Premier League's top shot-stoppers, and represented Ireland at three European Championships and two World Cups. Interestingly, he has prior involvement with the League Cup, having assisted in the preliminary round draw alongside John Barnes back in June 2025. Now a respected pundit, Given's calm demeanour and goalkeeper's eye for detail make him a fan favourite on Sky Sports panels.

The 2025-26 EFL Cup season has already delivered drama, starting with the preliminary round on August 4, featuring lower-league sides like Barnet and Newport County. All 92 clubs from the Premier League and English Football League entered, with rounds progressing through August and September. Notable early results included Grimsby Town's penalty shootout win over Brentford and Wrexham's victory against Cardiff City. The third round saw big Premier League sides like Newcastle United thrash Bradford City 4-1, while Arsenal and Tottenham advanced comfortably.

Quarter-finals are heating up, with Cardiff City falling 1-3 to Chelsea on December 16. Tonight's Manchester City vs Brentford clash is pivotal, potentially setting the stage for blockbuster semi-final ties. The competition's recent history adds intrigue; Newcastle United ended a 70-year trophy drought by beating Tottenham 2-1 in last season's final, a moment that resonated deeply with fans in the North East.

For British viewers, Sky Sports' multi-channel coverage ensures no one misses out. Sky Sports Main Event serves as the flagship, often bundling key moments from the day's football calendar. The UHD version offers enhanced visuals for 4K television owners, while Sky Sports Premier League caters to those focused on top-flight talent. The YouTube option democratises access, allowing free viewing with reactions and highlights post-draw. This setup reflects Sky's dominance in UK football broadcasting rights, secured through lucrative deals covering the Premier League and domestic cups.

Why does this draw matter? The semi-finals, scheduled for early 2026, will pit the surviving elite against each other in two-legged ties, culminating in a Wembley final. Potential participants include powerhouses like Manchester City, Chelsea, and possibly Arsenal, whose quarter-final against Crystal Palace was postponed due to European commitments. Pundits like Redknapp and Given will speculate on favourable draws, injury impacts, and rotation strategies amid packed festive schedules.

Mark Chapman's presenting career spans decades, from radio commentaries to prime-time TV. He stepped up during BBC's cricket coverage after recent tragedies but remains a football mainstay, praised for his fairness and rapport with guests. His chemistry with Redknapp, forged over years on Sky, often leads to candid discussions on player form and managerial decisions.

Jamie Redknapp's punditry evolved from his playing days at Liverpool, where injuries curtailed a promising career but didn't dim his passion. Post-retirement, he captained Southampton briefly before media success. Redknapp's bold opinions, such as critiques of modern full-backs, spark debates, enhancing viewer engagement during draws like tonight's.

Shay Given's journey from Donegal to St James' Park epitomises resilience. After Newcastle, stints at Manchester City, Aston Villa, and Sunderland followed, amassing over 600 club appearances. His punditry shines in goalkeeping analysis, often referencing the League Cup's role in youth development—many keepers break through here.

The EFL Cup's structure rewards progress: preliminary for bottom League Two, first round for most EFL clubs, second for non-Europeans, third for Champions League sides. This season's path saw upsets like Wycombe Wanderers edging Bromley on penalties and Cardiff's 3-0 rout of Cheltenham. Fourth round delivered Grimsby and Wrexham shocks before bigger names prevailed.

Sky Sports' investment in UHD and streaming underscores their commitment to UK fans. Alternatives like ITV occasionally dip in, as with upcoming Newcastle vs Fulham, but Sky owns the core rights. For global audiences, Paramount+ streams matches, yet British viewers enjoy the richest coverage.

Tonight at 22:35, expect electric atmosphere as Chapman, Redknapp, and Given reveal the semi-final lineup. Will City face Chelsea rematch? Could underdogs sneak in? Their insights, drawn from illustrious careers, will frame the narrative. Learn more about the 2025–26 EFL Cup or competition history.

As the draw balls tumble, British football fans unite in anticipation. Sky Sports delivers the moment, with this trio elevating it. Don't miss it—your front-row seat to cup glory awaits.

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