EFL Cup History
As we gear up for the final tomorrow between Liverpool and Newcastle, EPLNews takes a look at the origins and records of the League Cup.
The English Football League Cup, commonly known as the EFL Cup or nowadays as the Carabao Cup due to sponsorship contracts, is a significant fixture in English football, offering clubs across the top four divisions a chance to compete for silverware. Established in 1960, the competition has evolved over the decades, creating a rich tapestry of history, records, and memorable moments.
Origins and Evolution
The EFL Cup was introduced by the Football League in the 1960–61 season as a means to provide clubs with additional revenue and competitive matches during midweek slots. The inaugural tournament culminated in a two-legged final between Aston Villa and Rotherham United, with Villa emerging victorious with a 3–2 aggregate score.
Initially, the competition struggled to gain prominence, especially with clubs prioritising the FA Cup and European competitions. However, the EFL Cup distinguished itself by offering the winner a spot in European tournaments, enhancing its prestige. Over time, it became an integral part of the English football calendar, known for its potential to produce ‘giant-killing’ acts where lower-division teams upset top-flight clubs.
Format and Structure
Open to all 92 clubs from the Premier League, Championship, League One, and League Two, the EFL Cup operates on a knockout basis. Matches are typically single-leg affairs, with the semi-finals being the exception, played over two legs to determine the finalists. The final is traditionally held at Wembley Stadium, providing teams with the allure of a prestigious venue.
Notable Records and Statistics
- Most Successful Club: Liverpool stands as the most decorated club in EFL Cup history, boasting ten titles. Their triumphs came in the years 1981, 1982, 1983, 1984, 1995, 2001, 2003, 2012, 2022, and 2024.
- Consecutive Wins: Liverpool also holds the record for the most consecutive EFL Cup titles, securing four straight victories from 1981 to 1984.
- Other Multiple Winners: Manchester City has claimed the trophy eight times, with notable successes in recent years, while Manchester United has six titles to their name.
- Giant-Killings: The competition has witnessed several memorable upsets. For instance, in the 1974–75 season, Fourth Division side Chester defeated league champions Leeds United 3–0, advancing to the semi-finals.
- Record Final Victory: The largest margin of victory in a final occurred in 2013 when Swansea City defeated Bradford City 5–0.
Memorable Finals
In 1967, Queens Park Rangers, then a Third Division team, overcame a two-goal deficit to defeat West Bromwich Albion 3–2, marking the first time a club from outside the top two divisions won the trophy.
Fast forward to 2008, Tottenham Hotspur secured their first trophy in nine years by defeating Chelsea 2–1 after extra time, with Jonathan Woodgate scoring the decisive goal.
Four years later, in 2012, Liverpool clinched the cup after a dramatic penalty shootout against Cardiff City, marking their first trophy in six years.
Impact on Clubs and Managers
The EFL Cup has often been a springboard for clubs aiming to establish themselves or end trophy droughts. For managers, winning the cup can serve as a catalyst for further success or consolidation of their reputation.
- José Mourinho: His first trophy in English football was the EFL Cup in 2005 with Chelsea, setting the tone for a successful tenure.
- Pep Guardiola: The Manchester City manager has emphasised the importance of the EFL Cup, using it to instil a winning mentality within his squad, leading to multiple domestic successes, especially in the Premier League.
Sponsorship and Naming Rights
Over the years, the EFL Cup has undergone various name changes due to sponsorship deals:
- 1981–1986: Known as the Milk Cup under the sponsorship of the Milk Marketing Board.
- 1986–1990: Titled the Littlewoods Challenge Cup.
- 1992–1998: Branded as the Coca-Cola Cup.
- 1998–2003: Referred to as the Worthington Cup.
- 2003–2012: Named the Carling Cup.
- 2012–2016: Called the Capital One Cup.
- 2017–Present: Known as the Carabao Cup, after the Thai energy drink company secured naming rights.
Recent Developments
As of the current season, Liverpool are the reigning champions, having secured their tenth title in 2024. The 2025 final is set to feature Liverpool and Newcastle United, with Newcastle aiming to secure their first major domestic trophy since 1955.
Conclusion
The EFL Cup has cemented its place in English football as a competition rich in history and significance. It offers clubs an opportunity for silverware, provides a platform for emerging talents, and has been the backdrop for numerous memorable moments that have contributed to the tapestry of English football.