The draw for the National League Cup quarter-finals have been announced, with four Premier League 2 (PL2) sides drawn against clubs from the National League.
Leeds United, Newcastle United, Brighton & Hove Albion and Manchester United are the PL2 sides looking to progress to the semi-finals when these fixtures take place at the beginning of March.
National League Cup quarter-final draw
Aldershot Town v Leeds United
Altrincham v Newcastle United
Braintree Town v Brighton & Hove Albion
Sutton United v Manchester United
What is the National League Cup?
The National League Cup was formed this season by the Premier League and the National League for first teams of National League clubs and PL2 sides.
The competition is designed to give young players from Premier League and EFL clubs additional opportunities to test themselves against senior opposition, with the aim of further aiding elite player development.
The cup, which began in October, also offers an opportunity for National League clubs to play regular matches against the best Under-21 teams in England at their own stadiums, with this additional exposure intended to improve the playing and spectator experience, as well as the clubs’ growth and sustainability.
National League clubs will also keep all gate receipts from these fixtures.
What's the competition's format?
The National League Cup is a 32-team midweek competition, comprising 16 Under-21 teams participating in PL2, and 16 first teams from clubs participating in the National League.
The competition consists of a group stage (four groups of eight), with the two best-placed teams in each group advancing to a knockout stage to determine the winner.
Remaining key dates
Knockout rounds
Quarter-finals: 5 March 2025
Semi-finals: 11-12 March 2025
Final: 1-2 April 2025
