Chelsea got the all-important win over Cardiff to go through to the semi-final of the Carabao Cup.
Enzo Maresca might not admit it, but he will have been nervous going into Tuesday night’s clash after the media storm that swept over Chelsea this week.
Chelsea were bailed out by substitutes in the second half, having struggled against the home side for the first 45.
Alejandro Garnacho and Pedro Neto are the heroes of the evening, but it was Maresca who was the focus of the travelling support once Chelsea sealed the win.
Chelsea through to the semi-final of the Carabao Cup 💙
A shaky performance — who didn't take their chance?
Chelsea beat Cardiff 3-1
Photo by Dan Istitene/Getty Images
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Chelsea fans singing Enzo Maresca’s name after turbulent week
Maresca’s well-documented comments after Everton caused chaos at Stamford Bridge.
Fans had been split about whose side to take between the club and the manager but after this particular outing, their stance was clear.
Garnacho’s clincher in the 93rd minute lifted the pressure off, and allowed fans to start celebrating. Even before the whistle blew, fans were singing ‘Oh, Enzo Maresca’ over and over.
After, the Chelsea boss went over to the away end where the words of appreciation continued. Sounds like all is well between the Italian and the travelling support. Hopefully it has returned to similarly amicable terms behind the scenes.
Who was your Man of the Match against Cardiff?
Or does anyone else deserve a shout? Let us know!
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Chelsea can set the tone for the season in the Carabao Cup
Jose Mourinho was famously bullish on the significance of the Carabao Cup.
It may not be the most prestigious trophy, but it can be an early source of motivation and bring that winning feeling through the rest of the campaign.
Chelsea celebrate goal against Cardiff in Carabao Cup
Photo by Dan Istitene/Getty Images
It’s all Premier League teams left in the competition, but if there’s one thing Maresca can do, it’s win a big game.
Whoever advances to the final four will not fancy facing the world champions in a one-and-done scenario. Another piece of silverware isn’t far away now.
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