One of the most enthralling factors of knockout football is the possibility of a ‘giant killing’. In a set 90 minute game, the better team on the day can often triumph, breaking down the barriers in quality, investment and league boundaries. The Capital One Cup this year has already witnessed such events, and could be set for a few more during Round 4. Although only teams from the Premier League and Championship are left, some clashes do pit the plucky underdog against the goliaths of the English game. Here are five ties to keep an eye on for a potential upset.
Leicester City vs. Fulham
First up we have Leicester playing host to Fulham. The Foxes have enjoyed a fine run in the competition so far, slaying Wycombe, Carlisle and Derby to book a clash with a top tier side in the last 16. They may well have a chance to add the Cottagers’ scalp to the collection, with the London side far from their best as it stands. Martin Jol’s men have added attacking quality to their ranks over the summer, but have left their soft underbelly exposed in the process. With the King Power Stadium the venue for the tie, a shock result could be on cards.
Birmingham City vs. Stoke City
Birmingham vs. Stoke could be one of the ties of the round. The Potters are really moving away from their brutish reputation under Mark Hughes, with the addition of a number of more creative players giving them much more of a spark in the final third. But, for all of their impressive play, Sparky’s men are currently in the lower realms of the top tier and have struggled for wins. Birmingham are by no means in good form, but they do enter the clash with a real chance of flooring their divisional superiors. The Midlanders have experience in the League Cup, having lifted the trophy in 2011.
Burnley vs. West Ham
Arguably the most surprising name in the hat for Round 4 was Burnley, who booked their place courtesy of an impressive 2-0 win against Preston North End. Their reward is a home tie with West Ham, which does present a genuine chance for them to reach the last eight. The Hammers have mixed positive results such as a shock 3-0 win against Tottenham, with some lifeless displays leaving them nearer the foot of the Premier League than the pinnacle. With Danny Ings in the form of his life, Burnley may be the dark horse for a spot in the quarter finals, and possibly a trip to Wembley.
Tottenham vs. Hull City
Newly promoted Hull are far from being an established Premier League force, making them real underdogs for their tie with Tottenham. However, the Tigers could be in with a chance of slaying Spurs, who have been a little inconsistent so far this term. The London side went about a radical overhaul over the summer, selling star man Gareth Bale and investing over £100m in new talent. Although arrivals such as Christian Eriksen and Erik Lamela have undoubted quality, Andre Villas-Boas is still bedding in his new look side. Home advantage may count for little as well, with West Ham having shown the world how to take advantage of Tottenham with a resolute defensive display and a little good fortune in front of goal.
Newcastle vs. Manchester City
Finally, we have Newcastle vs. Manchester City. The Magpies certainly cannot be described as a small team, but are definitely underdogs against City, even with home advantage. The Citizens have been mightily impressive so far this season, with Manuel Pellegrini having addressed some of the attacking concerns, which contributed to the loss of their Premier League title last term. But, Newcastle are also looking strong and have a fearsome attacking duo of their own in the shape of Papiss Cisse and Loic Remy. With some steely defensive resilience and a little luck in the final third, it could be the black and white side continuing their march towards Wembley.
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