Top 4 English manager has been finally sacked today after loosing to championship team in the premier League yesterday
In the aftermath of a defeat to Middlesbrough in the opening leg of the Carabao Cup semi-final, Chelsea faces an uphill battle to secure a spot in the final. Following a lackluster defensive display, Middlesbrough took the lead in the first half, courtesy of Hayden Hackney’s goal.
Mauricio Pochettino made three alterations to the starting lineup, reintroducing Thiago Silva, Noni Madueke, and Conor Gallagher for the match at Riverside Stadium. Cole Palmer operated as Chelsea’s false nine, quickly immersing himself in the game. Despite promising moves, including a close attempt by Madueke, Chelsea failed to find the net.
Palmer’s deep involvement in the game allowed players like Raheem Sterling and Madueke to exploit spaces centrally. However, despite Palmer’s interception and subsequent attempt on goal, Chelsea couldn’t capitalize, while Hackney’s goal compounded their first-half woes.
Levi Colwill’s defensive lapses, particularly evident in Hackney’s goal, raise concerns about Chelsea’s left-back position, especially with injuries to Marc Cucurella and Ben Chilwell. Colwill’s performance indicates a misalignment with his preferred central defensive role.
At halftime, Chelsea trailed 1-0, with Palmer missing crucial chances. The second half saw Chelsea resorting to wide play and crosses into the box, but their lack of presence in the box thwarted their efforts. Substitutions, including bringing on Armando Broja, failed to change the tide.
Despite dominating possession, Chelsea’s inefficiency in front of goal and defensive vulnerability persisted, leaving them in a precarious position ahead of the second leg. The upcoming match at Stamford Bridge offers an opportunity for redemption, albeit with significant improvements needed to overturn the deficit.
