December 17, 2025 — Dalena Reporters
Chelsea Football Club halted a potential upset and booked their place in the Carabao Cup (English League Cup) semi-finals with a 3-1 victory over Cardiff City, providing a timely lift for manager Enzo Maresca amid mounting scrutiny over the club’s form and leadership.
The quarter-final tie played on Tuesday night at the Cardiff City Stadium saw Chelsea eventually assert themselves against spirited third-tier opponents, with late goals turning the tide in their favour. Maresca’s subs — particularly Alejandro Garnacho and Pedro Neto — proved decisive, with Garnacho scoring twice and Neto adding a crucial strike as the Blues shook off a spirited response from the League One club.
Cardiff, the last non-Premier League side remaining in the competition, frustrated Chelsea for large periods and even managed to equalise thanks to a header from David Turnbull. However, Chelsea’s quality ultimately prevailed as the visitors moved through to the last four.
The victory carries additional significance for Maresca, who has faced questions in recent weeks over his team’s performances. Fans at full-time were heard singing the Italian’s name, and he later expressed appreciation for the support after what had been a challenging week.
Chelsea will now prepare for the League Cup semi-final stage, where they will aim to end a long domestic trophy drought. Success in this knockout competition is seen as a key opportunity for Maresca to consolidate his position and deliver silverware amid a congested fixture schedule that has tested squad depth across competitions.
The Blues’ ability to overcome lower-league opposition under pressure underscores both the club’s talent and Maresca’s tactical resilience — but also highlights the fine margins of cup football, where momentum and substitutions can define a team’s progression.