West Ham United secured a dramatic 5-3 win on penalties against Manchester City at a sold-out London Stadium. By winning this fourth-round clash, the Hammers ended City's impressive four-year run as League Cup winners. The contest remained goalless throughout regulation time, leading to a shootout where West Ham emerged victorious to claim their spot in the quarter-finals.
Having already knocked out Manchester United in the preceding round, West Ham has ensured that the Carabao Cup will be won by a non-Manchester side for the first time in six years. Both managers, Pep Guardiola and David Moyes, opted for heavily rotated squads, though both teams still fielded highly competitive lineups.
Statistically, Manchester City were the dominant force, controlling 65% of the ball with a precision rate of 90%. However, they lacked the finishing touch needed to break the deadlock. Despite creating a wealth of opportunities, they were thwarted by a resolute West Ham defense and an exceptional performance from goalkeeper Alphonse Areola, who saved everything that came his way. It was a stunning conclusion to City's long period of dominance in the tournament.
The shootout started poorly for City when substitute Phil Foden missed the target with a wayward left-footed shot. This error proved fatal, as West Ham were clinical from the spot. Said Benrahma eventually sealed the victory by netting the fifth and final penalty. Interestingly, this mirrors City's exit from five years ago, when they were eliminated at the same stage by their local rivals, Manchester United.
Since the 2017-18 season, Pep Guardiola's side had been untouchable in this competition. Reflecting on the loss, Guardiola admitted that no dynasty lasts forever, though he praised his players' fight. He remains confident that City will return stronger next year to reclaim the trophy.
Meanwhile, Liverpool kept their unbeaten streak alive with a comfortable 2-0 victory over Championship side Preston at Deepdale. Goals from Takumi Minamino and Divock Origi in the second half ensured a smooth transition into the quarter-finals.
The game's standout moment came in the 84th minute courtesy of Divock Origi. The Belgian forward showed great instincts to pounce on a loose ball just outside the six-yard box, cleverly flicking it over the keeper with his heel to score.
The tournament is now wide open, with Liverpool, Tottenham, and Leicester City joining the quarter-final stage, where Chelsea and Arsenal are already waiting.