Chelsea has charted their path to Wembley Stadium following the League Cup semi-final draw, where they will face either Arsenal or Crystal Palace in the semi-finals.
Enzo Maresca’s team will host the first leg at Stamford Bridge before traveling for the second leg, with a spot in the March final at stake.
Advertisement
The Blues secured their semi-final berth with a 3-1 away win against League One opponents Cardiff City, despite the match being less than thrilling.
This victory followed earlier triumphs over Lincoln City and Wolverhampton Wanderers, marking a challenging yet successful run from the third round for Chelsea.
All eyes now turn to the Emirates Stadium, where Arsenal will play FA Cup champions Crystal Palace next week to decide Chelsea’s rivals.
Palace comes in with high spirits after winning their first major trophy last summer, although they are the only semi-finalist yet to win the League Cup.
On the opposite side of the draw, Manchester City will take on reigning champions Newcastle United in a high-stakes semi-final showdown.
Advertisement
City advanced with a composed 2-0 victory over Brentford, while Newcastle narrowly defeated Fulham 2-1 in a thrilling match.
Yoane Wissa scored first, but Sasa Lukic equalized for Fulham, only for young talent Lewis Miley to net a late winner, keeping Newcastle’s title defense hopes alive.
Newcastle will host the first leg of that matchup.
The initial legs of both semi-finals are slated for the week beginning January 12, with second legs scheduled for the week starting February 2.
The final is set for Sunday, March 22.
Manchester City, with a record eight League Cup wins, is favored to add another title to their collection, while Newcastle aims to challenge them fiercely.
Advertisement
Chelsea has claimed the League Cup five times, their latest victory coming in 2015. This appears to be their best opportunity for silverware this season. Arsenal has lifted the trophy twice but must first overcome the Eagles.