Thu Oct 31 06:23:31 UTC 2024: ## Chelsea’s Carabao Cup Hopes Dashed by Newcastle Errors
Newcastle United sent Chelsea crashing out of the Carabao Cup with a 2-0 victory at St. James’ Park on Wednesday night. The Blues’ defense, heavily rotated by manager Enzo Maresca, made a series of costly errors that allowed the home side to take control early.
The first goal came in the 23rd minute when a high press forced a mistake from Benoit Badiashile and Renato Veiga, allowing Alexander Isak to slot the ball past the Chelsea goalkeeper. Just three minutes later, Axel Disasi, under pressure from a free-kick, inadvertently bundled the ball into his own net to double Newcastle’s lead.
Maresca had made 11 changes from the side that beat Newcastle in the Premier League over the weekend, and the lack of cohesion was evident as the Blues struggled to cope with Newcastle’s intense pressing game.
The defeat marks a disappointing end to Chelsea’s Carabao Cup campaign and leaves them with questions to answer about the defensive solidity of their “B team.” The match also highlighted the tactical superiority of Newcastle manager Eddie Howe, whose side were ultimately deserving victors.
First Piper 