Carabao Cup third round: how to watch every live match on Sky Sports

Introduction to the Carabao Cup third round 2025/26

The Carabao Cup third round is set to deliver gripping football action across September 2025, with all 16 ties broadcast live on Sky Sports+. This round welcomes the nine Premier League clubs involved in European competitions, joining the 23 winners from the previous round to contest 16 exciting fixtures. Fans across the UK can expect a thrilling mix of top-flight clashes and giant-killing opportunities as the competition heats up.

Key fixtures and dates to watch

The third round kicks off on Tuesday, 16 September, with three standout matches. Brentford host Aston Villa in a repeat of their recent Premier League encounter at the Gtech Community Stadium, promising end-to-end football. Sheffield Wednesday face Grimsby Town, while Crystal Palace take on Millwall, all available live on Sky Sports+ and Sky Sports Football channels.

Following this, on Wednesday, 17 September, Swansea City welcome Nottingham Forest. The fixtures then pause briefly before resuming on Tuesday, 23 September, featuring a packed schedule including Liverpool’s home clash with Southampton, Chelsea’s trip to Lincoln City, and the Premier League showdown between Wolves and Everton at Molineux.

Wednesday, 24 September, concludes the round with four high-profile games: Newcastle United host Bradford City, Arsenal travel to Port Vale, Manchester City visit Huddersfield Town, and Tottenham Hotspur face Doncaster Rovers at their home ground.

How to watch the Carabao Cup live in the UK

Sky Sports subscribers have full access to all Carabao Cup third-round fixtures through Sky Sports+, a free channel available on Sky Q, Sky Glass, and Sky Stream (channel 404). Sky Sports+ supports up to 100 concurrent live streams, allowing fans to follow their favourite clubs without missing a moment.

For those without Sky, NOW Sports offers contract-free streaming options. The NOW Sports Day or Flexible Month Memberships provide instant access to all Sky Sports channels, including every live Sky Sports+ stream and on-demand highlights. This flexibility is ideal for casual viewers or fans who want to catch specific matches.

The Sky Sports app also enhances the viewing experience with personalised features that allow users to follow their preferred teams and competitions, speeding up access to live matches. The app is available for download on iPhone, iPad, and Android devices.

Why the Carabao Cup remains a must-watch competition

The Carabao Cup has increasingly become a platform for Premier League giants and lower-league sides to showcase talent and ambition. The 2025/26 third round highlights this perfectly, with top-flight clubs balancing European commitments while navigating potential pitfalls against determined opponents.

For example, Newcastle United, the current holders, face Bradford City at St James’ Park, a fixture that pits experience against the hunger of lower-league challengers. Arsenal’s encounter with Port Vale offers a similar narrative, where tactical nous will be tested against passionate underdogs.

This round also provides a glimpse into squad depth and emerging talents, as managers often rotate players. Liverpool’s home game against Southampton could reveal future stars, while Chelsea’s visit to Lincoln City might produce memorable upsets.

Additional insights and fan engagement

The Carabao Cup’s inclusivity is a unique selling point, with all ties broadcast live ensuring fans never miss action. The draw for the fourth round, scheduled immediately after the Arsenal vs Port Vale match, adds extra excitement and speculation for supporters keen to plan ahead.

Football followers who want to stay updated on fixtures and results may also benefit from checking out comprehensive guides such as the Premier League Scores And Fixtures Guide 2024 25 Season on SportsScoop, which complements Carabao Cup coverage by offering detailed information on league matches.

How the Carabao Cup fits into the wider football calendar

The Carabao Cup third round occurs early in the season, offering clubs a valuable chance to gain momentum and silverware. The competition's later rounds, including the fourth round in late October and the semi-finals in January and February 2026, build towards the eagerly awaited final in March at Wembley Stadium.

This timing is crucial for clubs balancing multiple competitions, especially those involved in Europe. The Cup provides a test of squad resilience and tactical adaptability, often influencing league form and player confidence.

Conclusion: Don’t miss a moment of Carabao Cup action

With all third-round matches available live on Sky Sports+ and flexible streaming options for non-subscribers, the 2025/26 Carabao Cup promises unforgettable football moments. Whether supporting Premier League heavyweights like Liverpool and Arsenal or rooting for lower-league challengers, fans can enjoy every goal, save, and upset.

For further football insights and live coverage, explore SportsScoop’s extensive articles, including updates on other competitions such as the Scotlands World Cup Dream Optimism And Challenges Ahead. Stay connected and never miss a beat this football season.