Chelsea Cruise into Carabao Cup Final with Emphatic Win Over Middlesbrough

Chelsea stormed into the Carabao Cup final with a commanding victory over Middlesbrough in the second leg of the semi-finals at Stamford Bridge. The Championship side, Middlesbrough, had a slim 1-0 lead from the first leg, but Chelsea quickly turned the tide in their favor.

Chelsea’s dominance in the first half led to an early own goal by Middlesbrough captain Jonny Howson, followed by goals from Enzo Fernandez, Axel Disasi, and Cole Palmer. Palmer further extended Chelsea’s lead with his second goal, while Noni Madueke also found the back of the net. Although Middlesbrough’s Morgan Rogers managed to score a consolation goal, it was not enough to prevent Chelsea from securing a convincing 6-2 aggregate victory.

With this win, Chelsea booked their place in the Carabao Cup final at Wembley on February 25th. They will face either Liverpool or Fulham, who are set to compete in the other semi-final. Liverpool currently hold a 2-1 advantage after the first leg.

Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino‘s side showcased their attacking prowess, leveling the tie on aggregate within 15 minutes. Ben Chilwell, making his first club start in over three months, played a vital role by providing an incisive through ball to Armando Broja, leading to Howson’s unfortunate own goal.

Boro had their chances, with Rogers coming closest to equalizing, but Chelsea’s clinical finishing and overall quality proved too much for the second-tier side. Middlesbrough faced several injury issues, which weakened their team, while Chelsea took full advantage of their opponents’ mistakes to seal the victory.

It is worth noting that Chelsea’s co-owner Todd Boehly completed his takeover in May 2022, and this will be the club’s first major final since then.

Chelsea will now eagerly wait to find out their opponent in the Carabao Cup final, which promises to be an exciting clash at Wembley.