At its 2018 Summer Conference, EFL clubs have voted on a number of rule changes to next season’s Carabao Cup competition including the removal of extra time.
The rationale put forward by the EFL is that withdrawing the additional 30 minutes of play would directly address any additional fatigue issues that are occasionally caused when the midweek ties go beyond the traditional 90-minute period.
A statistical analysis was presented that demonstrated how almost 85 per cent of matches ended in normal time over a three-year period, without the additional period being required, and as a result clubs have supported the new approach.
In the event that scores are tied after 90 minutes, penalty kicks will be taken immediately to determine a winner. However, the format of penalties in the competition will revert to the traditional format after EFL clubs trialled the ABBA concept throughout the 2017/18 season. This will be applicable in all EFL competitions.
In addition to the on-field matters, clubs were also given the option to remove the seeding arrangements from the first two rounds of the Carabao Cup and the vote determined that this element will no longer feature. Round One will remain regionalised into North and South sections.
The EFL also confirmed that VAR can be used in next season’s competition at all fixtures played at a Premier League stadium.