Potential Fan Clashes Prompt Consideration of Early Kick-Off for Chelsea-Liverpool Carabao Cup Final

The Carabao Cup final kick-off time might be moved up following a request from the police due to concerns about potential clashes between Chelsea and Liverpool fans. The Metropolitan Police has labeled the match as high-risk and wants the game to start no later than 3pm for public safety reasons. While the EFL initially preferred a 4:30pm kick-off due to their contract with Sky Sports a compromise is likely with discussions ongoing to finalize the timing.

Similar concerns led to the FA Cup final being moved to its traditional 3pm slot last season. Football-related arrests have been on the rise, prompting a more cautious approach from the police. Chelsea and Liverpool fans have clashed in the past, adding to concerns about crowd disorder. The EFL has chosen not to comment on the matter.