December 23, 2051 – Chelsea’s relentless run across all competitions finally hit a stumbling block as they were knocked out of the Carabao Cup in dramatic fashion, losing 5-3 on penalties to Fulham after a tense 0-0 draw at Craven Cottage.
Dimario’s side controlled large portions of the match, recording eleven shots to Fulham’s four and edging possession at 51%. Despite their dominance, Chelsea were left frustrated by the inspired goalkeeping of Isaac Ansah, who pulled off a string of sharp saves that earned him Player of the Match honours.
The contest was a cagey affair, littered with fouls and few moments of true quality. Fulham sat deep, relying on discipline and resilience to stifle Chelsea’s tiki-taka approach. When the match inevitably went to penalties, it was the home supporters who witnessed their side hold their nerve. Ivan Naia, Bradley, Clark, Glasspole and substitute Tino all converted calmly for Fulham.
Chelsea’s shootout, however, faltered. Logan Granger, normally so reliable, saw his opening effort saved, leaving his teammates with a mountain to climb. Although Fernando González, Junior and McAuley Civzelis scored their spot-kicks, the early miss proved costly. Fulham’s perfect execution meant Chelsea crashed out earlier than expected.
Afterwards, Granger faced the cameras with admirable honesty: “I’m disappointed to have missed, of course. But if there’s another penalty tomorrow, I’d step up again. That’s what being a striker is about.”
For Chelsea, the exit ends hopes of reclaiming the Carabao Cup, but their focus now turns to the Premier League and the Champions League knockout stages. Dimario will see this as a setback, though his side remain unbeaten in league play and continue to carry momentum elsewhere.
For Fulham, meanwhile, the victory will be remembered as a statement night at Craven Cottage. The roar when Tino buried the final penalty echoed through West London, marking one of their greatest recent moments and a cherished upset over their powerful rivals.