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January 21, 2024
After the first leg of their EFL Cup semi-final match against Middlesbrough, Chelsea were behind 0-1 against them. The crucial second leg at Stamford Bridge presents them with a vital opportunity to reverse the deficit and secure their place in the final. The Blues have demonstrated defensive solid form recently, having won their last two matches without conceding a goal. This resilience will be critical as they aim to overturn the aggregate score.
On the other hand, Middlesbrough, under the management of former Manchester United player Michael Carrick, is well-positioned for progression. Their lead from the first leg has given them a substantial advantage, courtesy of a vital goal from Hayden Hackney. If Middlesbrough can either win or secure a draw at Stamford Bridge, they will clinch a spot in the final, where they will face either Fulham or Liverpool. This scenario underscores the high stakes and intense pressure on both teams as they head into the decisive second leg.
Kick-Off:
Date: Tuesday, January 23, 2024
Time: 8:00 PM UK / 1:30 AM IST (Wednesday)
Location: Stamford Bridge
Form
Chelsea: W-L-W-W-W
Middlesbrough: D-W-W-L-L
Cole Palmer (Chelsea)
Cole Palmer, who did not fare well against Middlesbrough in the first leg, is still an important player for Chelsea. His ability to create opportunities and contribute to the attacking play is well-recognized. Recently, Palmer demonstrated his potential by scoring a decisive penalty against Fulham in a Premier League match. This goal not only secured three points for Chelsea but also could serve as a significant boost to his confidence. With his recent form and the high-pressure environment of the second leg, Palmer’s performance could be pivotal in Chelsea’s bid to overturn the deficit. His creativity and attacking prowess will be essential as the Blues capitalize on their home advantage.
Marcus Forss (Middlesbrough)
Marcus Forss is another key player to watch, especially given his recent return from injury. After missing the first leg, Forss has made an impact in his subsequent appearances, scoring in his last two matches as a substitute. His return to form is timely for Middlesbrough, as his goal-scoring ability and presence in the final third could be crucial in the second leg. Under the management of Michael Carrick, Forss’s contributions could prove vital in maintaining or extending Middlesbrough’s lead. His sharpness in front of goal and ability to create scoring opportunities will be closely monitored as the Championship side aims to secure their place in the final.
Chelsea trail 0-1 on aggregate going into the second leg.
In the final at Wembley Stadium, the victor will play either Fulham or Liverpool.
Middlesbrough last reached the EFL Cup semi-finals in the 2003-04 season, where they won the title.
Chelsea: The Blues will miss Reece James, Lesley Ugochukwu, Romeo Lavia, Marc Cucurella, and Wesley Fofana. Christopher Nkunku is also doubtful for this crucial match.
Middlesbrough: Despite their advantage, Middlesbrough will be without Alex Bangura, Riley McGree, Paddy McNair, Darragh Lenihan, and Thomas Smith, who will likely miss the game.
Total Matches: 118
Chelsea Wins: 57
Middlesbrough Wins: 32
Draws: 29
Chelsea (4-2-3-1)
Petrovic (GK); Madueke, Gallagher, Sterling; Palmer; Gusto, Disasi, Silva, Colwill; Caicedo, Fernandez
Middlesbrough (3-4-2-1)
Glover (GK); Crooks, Hackney; Forss; Jones, Barlaser, Howson, Bangura; van den Berg, Fry, Engel
Despite holding a 1-0 lead, Middlesbrough will face a formidable challenge in the second leg of the EFL Cup semi-final. Chelsea, playing at Stamford Bridge, will benefit from strong home support and are expected to come out aggressively. In the first leg, Chelsea displayed a more significant attacking threat and created several scoring opportunities, indicating their potential to overturn the deficit.
To secure their place in the final, Chelsea must solidify their defense and capitalize on the chances they create. With their recent form showing solid defensive performances and effective attacking play, the Blues are well-positioned to reverse the scoreline. If Chelsea can address their defensive lapses and be clinical in front of goal, they have a solid chance of winning the second leg and progressing to the final.
Given the current form and the advantage of playing at home, the prediction is that Chelsea will win 2-0 in the second leg. This would result in an aggregate score of 2-1 in favor of Chelsea, securing their spot in the final and setting up an exciting showdown against either Fulham or Liverpool.
Chelsea 2-0 Middlesbrough is the predicted result (aggregate: Chelsea 2-1 Middlesbrough).
Broadcast Information
India: FanCode
UK: Sky Sports
US: ESPN+
Nigeria: Supersport
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Katarzyna Nowak is a seasoned writer with over five years of experience in editorial content, news reporting, and football sportsbook app reviews. As an author for Football News Today, she combines her deep understanding of the sports betting industry with a passion for football, delivering insightful and accurate content that keeps readers informed and engaged.
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