On Tuesday night, Chelsea produced a commanding performance, overturning a first-leg deficit against Middlesbrough to secure a place in the League Cup final. The 6-1 victory at home matched Liverpool’s joint-biggest second-leg winning margin in League Cup semi-final history, equaling their 5-0 win against Crystal Palace in 2001.
Mauricio Pochettino’s Chelsea, trailing 1-0 from the first leg, demonstrated dominance at home, capitalizing on mistakes and securing a 10-1 aggregate victory. Enzo Fernandez and Cole Palmer starred in the match, each scoring twice, while Axel Disasi and Noni Madueke also found the net. Jonny Howson’s own goal added to Middlesbrough’s misery, though Morgan Rogers salvaged a late consolation.
This victory secured Chelsea’s place in their 10th League Cup final, a record only surpassed by Liverpool’s 13 appearances. The potential rematch of the 2022 final looms if Liverpool can defend their 2-1 lead against Fulham in the other semi-final.
If Liverpool advances, it would set the stage for a repeat of the 2022 League Cup and FA Cup finals, where both teams clashed in goalless draws, with Liverpool emerging victorious in both on penalties. Fulham, aiming for their first major trophy, faces a tough challenge against Liverpool in the semi-final.
The League Cup final is scheduled for Sunday, February 25, at Wembley, offering the prospect of an exciting showdown between two top-tier teams.
