Chelsea booked their place in the semifinals of the 2025-26 Carabao Cup with a 3–1 victory over Cardiff City at a vibrant Cardiff City Stadium on Tuesday night. The Blues overcame spirited resistance from the League One leaders to secure progression in the English League Cup.
Alejandro Garnacho was the star of the show for Chelsea, scoring twice after coming off the bench, while Pedro Neto added a crucial strike late in the game. Cardiff’s David Turnbull had briefly brought the home side level with a well-struck header midway through the second half, but Chelsea’s quality ultimately proved decisive.
Chelsea struggled to break down a resolute Cardiff defence in the first half, with chances scarce and the scoreline reflecting a tight opening 45 minutes. The Blues dominated possession but lacked cutting edge until the second half.
The deadlock was finally broken in the 57th minute when Garnacho, introduced at halftime, met a pass from Facundo Buonanotte and fired past Cardiff’s goalkeeper. The substitute impact continued to tell as Chelsea took control of the contest.
Cardiff refused to wilt. With 15 minutes remaining, Turnbull rose brilliantly to meet a cross and head Cardiff level, delighting the home support. It was his first goal in over a year and briefly swung momentum back toward the Welsh side.
However, Chelsea restored their advantage swiftly. Pedro Neto laced a low drive past the keeper in the 82nd minute, before Garnacho sealed the win with his second strike deep into stoppage time.
