All the information you need: Chelsea vs Middlesbrough
Chelsea is set to host Middlesbrough in the Carabao Cup semi-final second leg tomorrow evening, and club historian Rick Glanvill and club statistician Paul Dutton provide a comprehensive preview of the upcoming fixture.
The five-time Carabao Cup winners, Chelsea, are determined to rectify their first-leg loss to Middlesbrough as they face the crucial second leg at Stamford Bridge. This match is pivotal for London’s first and most recent holders of the trophy, as they aim to secure a spot in the final at Wembley next month.
Despite trailing by a goal, Chelsea has the opportunity to play at home and attempt to overturn the deficit, a scenario that many teams would relish. Success in this floodlit encounter could be a defining moment for the young Blues squad.
Chelsea has a history of success in semi-final ties, with six of the previous 15 concluded at Stamford Bridge. The team has emerged victorious in five of those instances, including overcoming a first-leg deficit against Tottenham Hotspur in 2019.
In their recent matches at Stamford Bridge, Chelsea has displayed dominance, winning the last six games across all competitions, with seven of the last eight ending without defeat. The team had a favorable 10-day break following their victory over Fulham, while Middlesbrough, after a 1-1 draw with Rotherham United, will have a shorter turnaround of just 75 hours.
The winner of the Chelsea vs. Middlesbrough match will face either Fulham or Liverpool in the final at Wembley. Victory in the final ensures qualification for European football in the following season.
Chelsea has a remarkable record against Middlesbrough at Stamford Bridge, remaining unbeaten in 21 games, including 15 victories.
Key Points:
- Chelsea welcomes back Ben Chilwell and Carney Chukwuemeka for the second leg.
- Chelsea’s recent success at Stamford Bridge includes a penalty shootout victory over Newcastle in the previous round.
- Middlesbrough faces injury challenges and the absence of key players, affecting their lineup for the second leg.
The match’s outcome will be crucial, determining the finalist for the Carabao Cup at Wembley on May 25. The away goals rule does not apply, and in case of a level aggregate score after 90 minutes, extra time will be played, followed by a penalty shootout if necessary. Players cautioned in the first leg, such as Levi Colwill and Isaiah Jones, risk missing the final if cautioned again.
Chelsea’s historical success in semi-finals, the current unbeaten streak at Stamford Bridge, and Middlesbrough’s challenges set the stage for an exciting and significant Carabao Cup semi-final second leg.
