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Chelsea vs Leeds: Carabao Cup Clash Preview, Predictions, and Lineups

Chelsea Host Leeds in Carabao Cup Third Round

Chelsea aim to recover quickly after their first loss under Xabi Alonso as they face Leeds United at Stamford Bridge in the 2026–27 Carabao Cup third round. Without European football this season, Chelsea’s cup run began early with a comfortable win over Luton Town, marking Alonso’s first official home match. Leeds impressed in the second round by defeating Nottingham Forest away and remain unbeaten this season, confident they can challenge Chelsea on their ground.

After a defeat to Arsenal, Chelsea must avoid another setback against Leeds. Being knocked out by a lower-ranked team would be a tough start to Alonso's tenure. Despite missing out on Champions League action, Chelsea face a demanding test they need to overcome.

Score Prediction

We think Chelsea will edge past Leeds but not without a fight. Even if Alonso shakes up his lineup, the Blues’ quality advantage should help them advance. Fringe players will want to impress, especially with fewer games due to no European commitments. The Carabao Cup presents a key chance to secure silverware early in the season.

The pressure is on for Chelsea to deliver results. Leeds have dangerous players and a solid defense that could exploit Chelsea’s vulnerabilities. Still, the Blues are likely to grind out a narrow victory to keep their cup hopes alive.

Key Stats

  • Leeds’ record at Stamford Bridge: Chelsea have not lost at home to Leeds since 1999, winning seven of nine matches played there.
  • Scoring form: Chelsea have netted 10 goals in four league games this season. Leeds have conceded few but have scored only three times in their three league matches.
  • Carabao Cup history: Leeds have progressed past the third round just once since 2017–18, whereas Chelsea have reached beyond this stage every year except once in the last 15 seasons.

Prediction: Chelsea 2–1 Leeds

Predicted Chelsea Lineup

Injuries keep Marco Palestra, Jordan Henderson, and Emmanuel Emegha sidelined, with Moisés Caicedo still the biggest miss. Midfield options are limited, so Roméo Lavia is expected to retain his spot. Valentín Barco might get a chance to prove himself. Pep Chavarría and Malo Gusto could start at wingback alongside a strong center-back trio. Danny Welbeck leads the attack, aiming for his second Carabao Cup goal. Estêvão may replace Cole Palmer on the right side of the attacking midfield, with Morgan Rogers also starting.

  • Chelsea predicted lineup (3-4-2-1): Penders; Acheampong, Lacroix, Colwill; Gusto, Barco, Lavia, Chavarría; Estêvão, Rogers; Welbeck.

Predicted Leeds Lineup

Leeds remain a tight unit under Daniel Farke. Joe Rondon and Mateo Joseph are unavailable, and Daniel James's participation is doubtful due to a back injury. James Trafford is expected to continue as goalkeeper. Jaka Bijol returns to defense, possibly pushing James Justin to left wingback, replacing Gabriel Gudmundsson. Harry Wilson could make his second start, partnering with Brenden Aaronson. Lukas Nmecha may lead the line instead of Dominic Calvert-Lewin. Ethan Ampadu, a former Chelsea academy player, will captain Leeds.

  • Leeds predicted lineup (3-4-2-1): Trafford; Bijol, Elvedi, Muharemović; Bogle, Ampadu, Longstaff, Justin; Wilson, Aaronson; Nmecha.

Match Details

  • Location: London, England
  • Stadium: Stamford Bridge
  • Date: Wednesday, September 9
  • Kickoff Time: 3 p.m. ET / 12 p.m. PT / 8 p.m. BST
  • Referee: Jarred Gillet

Broadcast Information

  • United States: Paramount+
  • Canada: DAZN Canada, fuboTV Canada
  • Mexico: ESPN Mexico, Disney+ Premium
  • United Kingdom: Sky Go UK, NOW, SKY GO Extra, Sky Ultra HD, Sky Sports Main Event

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