CHELSEA 3–0 MAN UFC
Carabao Cup – Fourth Round
Venue: Drogba Arena, London
Attendance: 82,381
Scorers:
Júnior (13’), Netanel Sahar (31’), Marcelo (73’)
Man of the Match: Netanel Sahar (Chelsea) – 8.0 rating, 1 goal, 6 key passes
Another composed, complete performance from Chelsea saw them cruise into the quarter-finals of the Carabao Cup with a dominant 3–0 win over a disjointed Man UFC side. Netanel Sahar led the line with quality and assurance, capping off an all-action display with a sharp finish midway through the first half.
Command and Control
From the first whistle, Chelsea asserted themselves with energy and shape. Midfield orchestrators Zain Whatmough and José Francisco Landeira ensured control of the central zones, but it was the forwards who made the most visible impact. Júnior opened the scoring on 13 minutes with a thunderous strike following a quick VAR intervention. Moments later, Sahar doubled the lead with a crisp finish after clever movement in the box.
Relentless Pressure
Chelsea created chances at will, their xG tally finishing at a staggering 2.72 compared to Man UFC’s paltry 0.24. Sahar in particular was instrumental. His movement dragged defenders wide, his passing linked midfield to attack, and his anticipation saw him constantly in the right positions. His goal – his third in three matches – was a hallmark striker’s finish: sharp, low, and instinctive from 12 yards out.
Sahar’s Continued Rise
The Israeli striker’s form has been nothing short of electric. Since returning from his loan at RB Leipzig, Sahar has matured into a clinical and well-rounded forward. This match was another demonstration of his evolution. Six key passes underline the influence he had beyond scoring – constantly finding teammates in pockets of space and facilitating flowing attacks.
Having also found the net against Reading, APOEL, Napoli, and Aston Villa in recent weeks, Sahar now boasts six goals across all competitions this season with an average rating of 7.78. His fitness and positional intelligence allow Chelsea to stretch opposition defences, and he’s been rewarded with a steady scoring return.
Left-Footed Logic?
Man UFC’s tactical approach raised eyebrows. With a surprising number of left-footed players on the pitch, their attacking rhythm lacked cohesion and clarity. They struggled to create any meaningful threat, with just three shots and only 24% xG.
Injuries & Incidents
Oscar’s twisted ankle, sustained from a strong but fair tackle by Burak Coşkun, added to their misery. The VAR system was called into action once again to confirm there was no foul play.
Final Word
Chelsea’s momentum continues to grow. The cohesion across the squad – from Sahar’s clinical instincts, to the solidity of Beya and Coşkun at the back – has created a formidable outfit. Managerial rotation continues to offer fringe players like Marcelo and Júnior the chance to impress, and they have delivered.
As for Sahar, he’s becoming one of the first names on the teamsheet. With every match, he builds not only confidence but a reputation as one of the sharpest forwards in England. If this form continues, Chelsea’s push for silverware could have his name etched into the story by season’s end.