NewsExplained: VAR and in-stadium announcements trial for Carabao Cup semi-finals

The Reds visit Tottenham Hotspur Stadium for the tie’s opening match tonight (8pm GMT kick-off) and then host the return fixture at Anfield on February 6.

VAR will be in operation and in-stadium VAR announcements will also be trialled across both legs of each semi-final, with Arsenal and Newcastle United facing off elsewhere in the last four.

“As part of the trial, referees will announce (over the stadium public address system) the final decision following a visit to the VAR pitchside monitor, or upon the conclusion of factual matters such as accidental handball by a goalscorer or offside judgements. Only the final decision will be announced in the stadium,” said the EFL.

“In-stadium VAR announcements have already been successfully introduced in several FIFA events, including the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, and aim to provide greater clarity and understanding around key decisions to supporters in the stadiums and those watching from home.”