Wed Sep 25 07:54:07 UTC 2024: ## Chelsea Cruise Past Barrow, City Edge Watford in League Cup

Chelsea cruised into the League Cup Round of 16 with a resounding 5-0 victory over fourth-tier Barrow on Tuesday. New signing Christopher Nkunku stole the show, scoring a hat-trick in his seventh appearance for the Blues.

Nkunku, who now has six goals this season, opened the scoring with a well-placed finish before adding a second with a deft flick. His third goal came after Barrow goalkeeper Paul Farman’s misjudgement allowed him to roll the ball into an empty net. Joao Felix also shone, providing the assist for the opener and scoring Chelsea’s third with a deflected free-kick.

Meanwhile, a much-changed Manchester City side edged past Championship side Watford 2-1. Jeremy Doku, one of only two players to retain their place from Sunday’s Premier League draw with Arsenal, opened the scoring after five minutes. Matheus Nunes then doubled City’s lead with his first goal since his £53 million move last year. Tom Ince pulled one back for Watford late on, but City held on for the victory.

Elsewhere, Aston Villa won 2-1 at Wycombe thanks to goals from Emi Buendia and Jhon Duran. Leicester needed penalties to see off fourth-tier Walsall after a goalless draw.

Newcastle’s match against AFC Wimbledon was postponed due to a sinkhole on the League Two side’s pitch caused by heavy flooding. The match has been rescheduled for October 1st at Newcastle’s St. James’ Park.

The remaining League Cup ties will take place on Wednesday, with Liverpool facing West Ham and Arsenal hosting Bolton.

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