Chelsea Fight Through to League Cup Semi-Finals Relieving Strain on Maresca
Chelsea demonstrated their backing for manager Enzo Maresca, who has faced some unrest, by overcoming a tough challenge from third division Cardiff to advance to the League Cup semi finals with a 3-1 victory on Tuesday.
Maresca's team went ahead courtesy of Alejandro Garnacho's goal shortly after the break in the quarter final held in the Welsh city.
The Premier League outfit were tested intensely by the determined League One frontrunners, who levelled the score via David Turnbull's forceful header.
However, the London side provided a much needed boost for Maresca following his latest public frustration, with Pedro Neto and Garnacho scoring late on.
During his Monday press conference, the Italian coach avoided elaborating on his strong statement after the 2-0 triumph against Everton on Saturday, where he described the prior 48 hours as his toughest at the club due to insufficient "support" from "numerous individuals".
The coach's comments sparked rumours that he was targeting the club's owners Todd Boehly and Behdad Eghbali, along with directors Laurence Stewart and Paul Winstanley.
Reports indicate Maresca was dissatisfied with the lack of public endorsement from Chelsea's leadership amid backlash over his squad rotation amid the team's recent poor results.
The win against Cardiff marked just their second success in six matches across all tournaments.
Maresca, who guided Chelsea to victories in the Club World Cup and UEFA Conference League this year, has now taken the team to three semi finals within 18 months.
When questioned about feeling supported by the club, Maresca replied: "The emphasis tonight must be on qualifying for the semi final, and the fans' backing has remained constant."
"We are progressing correctly, and all my decisions aim to benefit everyone involved, including supporters and squad members," he added.
"I'm delighted, particularly with the players' commitment. As I mentioned yesterday, the calendar is packed with such challenging fixtures, requiring full focus, which we maintained."
Swift Influence
Sitting eight points adrift of Premier League toppers Arsenal, Chelsea aim to claim the League Cup for the first time since 2015.
With a focus on the upcoming Premier League clash at Newcastle on Saturday, Maresca rotated the lineup completely, resting Cole Palmer while Moises Caicedo returned from his ban.
Goalkeeper Filip Jorgensen denied efforts from Callum Robinson and Turnbull, as the enthusiastic Cardiff drew energy from the packed 33,000 strong audience.
Chelsea found it difficult to counter Cardiff's energy and almost conceded when Isaak Davies's delivery glanced off Caicedo, prompting an excellent save from Jorgensen.
After Maresca's challenging 48 hours, the first half proved underwhelming, yet he shifted momentum by introducing Garnacho and Joao Pedro at halftime.
Garnacho quickly influenced proceedings, netting for Chelsea in the 57th minute.
After intercepting Dylan Lawlor's poor distribution, Facundo Buonanotte advanced into the Cardiff box and set up Garnacho, who stayed calm to slot home neatly.
Chelsea surrendered their advantage in the 75th minute when Perry Ng delivered a cross into the penalty area, allowing Turnbull to capitalise on loose defending with a strong header from close range.
The visitors hit back decisively in the 82nd minute as Neto latched onto Joao Pedro's through ball and fired a low effort that took a deflection into the net.
Garnacho confirmed Chelsea's success in added time, chipping elegantly over Nathan Trott after breaking into the box.
The remaining quarter final ties on Wednesday feature Manchester City welcoming Brentford and Newcastle hosting Fulham, with Arsenal scheduled against Crystal Palace on December 23.