EFL Cup: Chelsea vs  Middlesbrough match preview, predictions, possible lineups, time and where to watch

Chelsea suffered a shock 1-0 loss to Middlesbrough in the first leg clash of their League Cup semi-final. Photo Credit: IMAGO / PA Images

EFL Cup: Chelsea vs Middlesbrough match preview, predictions, possible lineups, time and where to watch

Ayoola Kelechi 23:07 - 22.01.2024

Chelsea will hope to overturn a first-leg deficit in the EFL Cup semifinal when they host Middlesbrough

The upcoming football match between Chelsea and Middlesbrough on 23rd January 2024 at Stamford Bridge is set to be a highly anticipated encounter in the second leg of the Carabao Cup semi-finals. The match will kick off at 9:00 pm WAT.

Chelsea's Recent Form and Team News

Chelsea, under the guidance of Mauricio Pochettino, has shown mixed results recently. They have won four out of their last five games but lost the first leg of this tie, 1-0 to Middlesbrough. 

Injuries have hit Chelsea hard, with key players like Christopher Nkunku (hip injury), Reece James, Lesley Ugochukwu, Romeo Lavia, Marc Cucurella, Wesley Fofana, and striker Nicolas Jackson (on international duty) expected to be unavailable. Cole Palmer has been a standout performer for Chelsea this season, making him a key player to watch in this match​​​​​​.

Middlesbrough's Recent Form and Team News

Middlesbrough, managed by Michael Carrick, has had a varied run of form, with two wins, two losses, and a draw in their last five matches. They will miss key players such as Emmanuel Latte Lath, Alex Bangura, Paddy McNair, Darragh Lenihan, Thomas Smith, and potentially Isaiah Jones due to injury. 

Michael Carrick has turned things around at Boro since he was appointed. (Photo Credit: Imago.
Michael Carrick has turned things around at Boro since he was appointed. (Photo Credit: Imago.

Samuel Silvera and Riley McGree are away at the Asian Cup, and new signings Finn Azaz, Luke Ayling, and loanee Sam Greenwood are cup-tied. Isaiah Jones has been a critical player for Middlesbrough, providing both defensive solidity and creative output​​​​.

Chelsea vs Middlesbrough head-to-head record

Historically, Chelsea has the upper hand with 57 wins compared to Middlesbrough's 32, along with 29 draws between them. Chelsea has won four out of the last five encounters against Middlesbrough​​.

Chelsea vs Middlesbrough playing styles and tactics

Chelsea, known for their attacking football, will likely push for an early goal to overturn the first-leg deficit. Middlesbrough, on the other hand, might leverage their defensive structure to secure the draw they need to progress to the final​​.

Chelsea vs Middlesbrough betting tips and predictions

While Chelsea is favoured to win, Middlesbrough's defensive capabilities could see them drawing the match. 

Noni Madueke, Chelsea forward || Imago
Noni Madueke, Chelsea forward || Imago

Predictions suggest a possible Chelsea victory, but Middlesbrough's resilience shouldn't be underestimated​​​​.

Where and how to watch Chelsea vs Middlesbrough

The match will be broadcast live on Superports in Nigeria,  Sky Sports Main Event, Sky Sports Football, SKY GO Extra, and Sky Ultra HD in the United Kingdom. In the United States, it will be available on ESPN+, and in Canada on DAZN Canada​​.

Two goals and one assist for Cole Palmer in Luton vs Chelsea \\ Image credit: Imago
Cole Palmer scores for Chelsea || Imago Two goals and one assist for Cole Palmer in Luton vs Chelsea \\ Image credit: Imago

This clash at Stamford Bridge promises to be an exciting encounter, with both teams eager to secure their place in the Carabao Cup final. Chelsea will be looking to leverage their home advantage and overturn the first-leg result, while Middlesbrough will aim to continue their surprising run in the competition.

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