Middlesbrough boss Michael Carrick talks about what made Chelsea ‘brutal’ in the 6-1 win
Middlesbrough’s EFL Cup campaign ended with a 6-1 loss to Chelsea in the Carabao Cup semi-final second leg. Coming into this fixture on the back of a 1-0 win in the first leg, Michael Carrick’s side probably knew a draw would also not come easy at Stamford Bridge. The Blues also knew they had to get at it from the first minute and did just that; took the game by the scruff of its neck.
As early as the 15th minute, Middlesbrough saw their lead beat a hasty retreat. Raheem Sterling squared it to Armando Broja in the box and a heavy touch from the Albanian striker hit the boot of Brough midfielder Jonathan Howson who was trying to tackle Broja and went beyond the keeper’s reach.
Enzo Fernandez’s goal (29′) shortly after the opener saw the Blues take the lead in the tie for the first time. Axel Disasi (36′) and Cole Palmer (42′) scored in quick succession to see the Blues walk back into the tunnel on the back of a top-class dominant first-half performance, scoring four goals; albeit one own goal. Even though Chelsea started the second half slowly, another goal from Cole Palmer (77′) meant that there remained no lingering doubts about the outcome.
Noni Madueke (81′) also troubled the scorers before the final whistle. However, some suspect defending from Disasi saw Brough score one eventually through Morgan Rogers (88′). He cut inside and took a beautifully finessed shot that went straight past Djordje Petrovic who did not have much to do throughout the game.
Need for consistency!
Statistically speaking (FotMob), Chelsea overperformed their xG considerably. 2.97 on paper compared to the hexad on grass paints an interesting picture. Another interesting stat is 13 shots in total for Chelsea. Six on target and as many goals. Clinical performance, to say the least. That is what Middlesbrough manager Michael Carrick felt as well. Here is what he told football.london about the same:
“Six shots on target – or thereabouts – and six goals. Brutal. We got punished. Disappointment but massively proud of the lads how they came out in the second-half.”
The comprehensive victory against Middlesbrough not only secured Chelsea’s place in the Carabao Cup final but also served as a statement of intent. Mauricio Pochettino’s side showcased their attacking prowess, tactical discipline, and the ability to dismantle opposition defences. As Chelsea advances to the final, they carry the momentum of a convincing win, instilling confidence and belief within the squad.
It’s imperative for Chelsea to maintain this momentum as they transition back to Premier League action. The performance against Middlesbrough demonstrated the potency of Chelsea’s attacking options, with players like Cole Palmer and Armando Broja stepping up to the plate. Pochettino will likely stress the importance of replicating such performances against top-flight opposition, ensuring consistency and sustained success.
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The challenge now lies in translating this impressive cup performance into consistent success in the demanding landscape of English football. Bring Liverpool / Fulham on in the finals.