Chelsea progressed to the EFL Cup semi-finals with a 3-1 win over League One leaders Cardiff City after a competitive and testing tie in south Wales.
Roared on by a capacity crowd at the Cardiff City Stadium, the hosts matched Chelsea for large spells in a goalless first half, pressing aggressively and limiting the Premier League side’s attack.
Blues head coach Enzo Maresca made 11 changes from the weekend’s league win over Everton, but the reshuffled side struggled to impose themselves before the break.
The Italian responded with two half-time substitutions, a move that proved decisive.
One of those introductions, Alejandro Garnacho, broke the deadlock shortly after the restart, capitalising on a defensive error from Cardiff centre-back Dylan Lawlor to fire Chelsea ahead.
Cardiff response, Chelsea regain control
Cardiff hit back strongly as David Turnbull headed home from Perry Ng’s cross to level the contest and ignite the home support.
However, Chelsea quickly reasserted themselves, with substitute Pedro Neto restoring the lead through a low effort that took a deflection on its way past Nathan Trott.
Garnacho sealed the result deep into stoppage time with his second goal, ensuring Chelsea avoided a late scare and confirmed their place in the last four.
Focus shifts to semi-final draw
Despite an uneven performance, Chelsea were good value for the win and will now await Wednesday’s semi-final draw.
For Cardiff, the defeat ends a spirited cup run, but the display offers encouragement as they refocus on their promotion push.
The victory eases pressure on Maresca after a turbulent few days and keeps Chelsea on course for their first EFL Cup title in a decade.
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