Capital One Cup quarters open to underdogs after giant-killings
Holly Thackeray | October 29, 2015
The joy of English cup competitions remains in the fact that outsiders can regularly not just upset, but topple, the apple cart. While the FA Cup may claim to hold the romantic monopoly in that department, this campaign’s Capital One Cup has already slain some of the biggest names in top-flight football.
Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester United were just the latest scalps to be claimed in the round of 16, but their early exits could see some intriguing doors open for underdogs.
So, check-out Coral’s enticing odds for the final eight, and place a stake on who you think will claim the first crown of the campaign…
Man City to make amends for recent cup calamities?
The Citizens did not fare so well in domestic knock-out competitions last term, after Newcastle United dispatched two to boot the Sky Blues out of the League Cup fourth round, before Championship men Middlesbrough sent them packing from that same stage of an FA Cup encounter.
It’s clear by successive thrashings of Sunderland and Crystal Palace that Manuel Pellegrini’s men are taking these trophy chances more seriously this season. Though, as the Etihad outfit are now odds-on at 10/11 to win, despite still having Premier League title and Champions League distractions, your money may go further on another shout.
Klopp can collect first English silverware
Jurgen Klopp would truly be king of the Kop if he could navigate his way to winning the Capital One Cup after mere months in charge at Anfield.
Liverpool’s young-guns were a highlight as the Reds edged 1-0 past battling Bournemouth in the last 16, hinting that the German coach may have more depth at his disposal than first appeared. With such a young and hungry crop of players, Klopp could prove incredible value at 5/1 to make this tournament his first triumph.
Toffees to take trophy for themselves?
Across Merseyside, banks of fans in blue would be blown away if Roberto Martinez could bring the glory days back to Goodison Park. The regular also-rans have made it this far and are capable of taking on any of the teams left in the last eight.
Having squeezed past Norwich City on penalties, these dark horses are now 6/1 to win the lot and end their extensive trophy doubt. They may be inconsistent, but anything is possible with Martinez’s men.
Saints may march on
Southampton have made excellent use of their squad in this competition so far, with the likes of Shane Long and Jay Rodriguez helping Ronald Koeman’s side clock-up eight goals in two games. Though, as Saints fly closer to the business end, the south coast club have been bringing out the big-guns.
Liverpool are their next opponents, which could actually work in the Dutch coach’s favour, as there will be little chance of complacency, making Southampton superb at 7/1 to go all the way.
Stoke hunting for silverware
Stoke City are intriguing 8/1 shouts but, despite showing Chelsea the Britannia exit on spot-kicks, the Potters did ride their luck in that encounter. Far from the slick and solid outfit of last season, Mark Hughes’ men might find it difficult to go all the way.
Boro awaiting Teesside triumph
Good things come to those who wait, and Middlesbrough, spurred on by passionate support, have proven to be deadly giant-killers under coach Aitor Karanka.
Having narrowly missed out on Premier League promotion, and claimed both Manchester clubs as cup scalps, Boro still have nothing to show for all their impressive play in past few seasons. Everton should hold no fear in the quarter-finals, though, and these dark horses could be worth a dabble at 14/1 to claim this League Cup.
Sheffield Wednesday full of shocks
Perhaps the most unlikely of outsiders before a ball was kicked against Arsenal, the Owls (25/1) are another eager and exuberant side full of spirit.
The Yorkshire club did capitalise on the Gunners stretched roster, but still deserve plaudits for putting three past their illustrious guests. Still, a final eight appearance against experienced Stoke may be their learning curve.
Tigers tenacity spread too thinly
Steve Bruce’s Hull City certainly have their eyes on an immediate return to the top-tier and Capital One Cup excursions may understandably fall to the wayside, as the Tigers try for automatic promotion.
With Manchester City up next, Bruce may well field his best XI in search of a boost, but the Humberside outfit are understandably rank outsiders at 40/1 to nab a winners medal.
Relevant
There’s more Capital One Cup content in our archive
Coral’s top tip: Southampton at 7/1 to lift the League Cup should tickle your fancy
