Chelsea’s Carabao Cup campaign came to an abrupt end on Wednesday night, as Enzo Maresca’s side slumped to a dismal 2-0 defeat at Newcastle United. The Blues’ backline, reshuffled after Maresca made 11 changes from the weekend’s Premier League victory, looked shaky throughout.
Newcastle’s high-pressing strategy paid dividends, capitalizing on Chelsea’s defensive errors. Alexander Isak opened the scoring in the 23rd minute, exploiting mistakes by Benoit Badiashile and Renato Veiga. Just three minutes later, Axel Disasi’s own goal doubled the Magpies’ advantage, as Chelsea’s defence was caught off guard by a well-executed free-kick.
Eddie Howe’s men dominated the first half, with Joelinton nearly opening the scoring earlier, hitting the post from close range. Chelsea’s second-string lineup, with Cole Palmer relegated to the bench, struggled to cope with Newcastle’s intensity.
Maresca’s tactical decisions were called into question, as his players failed to adapt to the hosts’ pressing style. The Italian manager will be disappointed with his ‘B team’s’ performance, which saw Chelsea exit the competition at the last-16 stage.
Newcastle, on the other hand, advanced to the quarter-finals, underscoring their growing momentum under Howe’s guidance. For Chelsea, attention now shifts to their Premier League campaign, with a crucial clash against Manchester United looming on Sunday.
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