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

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?

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

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

Boro awaiting Teesside triumph

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

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

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