Chelsea were left frustrated after being held to a 2–2 draw by Liverpool in the first leg of the Carabao Cup Semi-Final at Anfield. Despite dominating possession and creating far better chances, the Blues couldn’t make their superiority count.
Match Summary
Liverpool took the lead through Adam Beckford in the 9th minute, heading in from close range. Chelsea quickly responded, with Mario Cardozo rifling in a low strike from the edge of the box to equalise midway through the first half.
Before half-time, Pelé put Chelsea ahead with a brilliant drive that kissed the post on its way in, but Alan Black ensured the tie remained level with a precise finish from 19 metres out in the 76th minute.
Statistically, Chelsea were the better side — 17 shots to Liverpool’s 10, and an xG advantage of 2.56 to 0.90 — but wastefulness in front of goal cost them the win.
Hugill in Attendance
England manager Jordan Hugill was seen in the stands at Anfield, reportedly monitoring Luca Bassey, Sam Lowson, Jorge Vermiglio, Elias Jimenez, Luther Banton, Joseph Haigh and Kieran O’Sullivan ahead of his next international squad announcement.
Elsewhere in the Carabao Cup
In the other semi-final, Manchester United took a narrow 1–0 lead over Everton thanks to a late strike from Leighton Greengrass. Both ties remain finely balanced heading into the second leg.
The return leg between Chelsea and Liverpool will take place at Stamford Bridge, where the Blues will look to finish the job in front of their home crowd.
Written by Henry Vinter | Match Report | WorldSport UK