The Carabao Cup draw is IN! Newcastle United are ready to defend their title, starting with a home clash against Bradford City. Will St James’ Park see another triumphant cup run begin, or could a League Two side pull off an early shock? Get all the details of the third-round matchups and what it means for the Magpies’ quest for glory!

Newcastle United are set to kick off their defence of the Carabao Cup, a trophy they remarkably lifted last season, with a home fixture against League Two side Bradford City in the competition’s third round.

The draw, which was eagerly anticipated by fans across the country, has presented the Magpies with what many are deeming a favourable start to their campaign to retain the prestigious domestic title. Having ended a significant 70-year wait for a major honour by triumphing over Liverpool in a memorable 2025 final, the pressure will be on Eddie Howe’s squad to demonstrate their championship pedigree once more.

The clash against Bradford City is scheduled to take place at the iconic St James’ Park during the week commencing September 15th or 22nd. This home advantage against a lower-league opponent offers Newcastle United a prime opportunity to build early momentum in their quest to become back-to-back Carabao Cup champions, a feat that would further cement their growing stature in English football.

Observers and pundits alike have noted that this Carabao Cup draw appears kinder to Newcastle compared to some of their Premier League counterparts, who face potentially tougher challenges in their opening fixtures. The strategic importance of navigating the early rounds successfully cannot be overstated for clubs aiming for silverware.

Indeed, the third round features several intriguing matchups beyond Newcastle’s tie. Last season’s finalists, Liverpool, are slated to host Southampton at Anfield, setting up an immediate test for the Reds. Meanwhile, reigning Premier League champions Manchester City will embark on a trip to Huddersfield Town, and Arsenal is set for a visit to Port Vale.

Elsewhere in the draw, Chelsea will also be on the road, heading to Lincoln City, indicating that several top-flight clubs will need to be at their best to avoid early exits. Notably, Manchester United, a traditional powerhouse in English football, will not feature in this year’s Carabao Cup competition, having been eliminated earlier in their campaign.

For Newcastle United, this Carabao Cup campaign represents more than just a chance to win another trophy; it’s an opportunity to build on recent success and reinforce their status among England’s elite. The journey begins at St James’ Park, and supporters will be hoping for a strong performance to lay down a marker for the rest of the competition.