Chelsea and Arsenal lock horns in the first leg of the Carabao Cup semifinal on Wednesday (January 14) at Stamford Bridge.
This high-stakes London derby sees Chelsea, under new manager Liam Rosenior, hosting Premier League leaders Arsenal in the first leg of a two-legged tie. The winner advances to face the victor of Newcastle vs Manchester City in the final at Wembley on March 22.
This is Rosenior's first home game in charge after a convincing 5-1 FA Cup win at Charlton. It's a massive early test for his vision at Chelsea, who have shown inconsistency this season but boast attacking talent and a strong historical record in EFL Cup semis.
Arsenal, managed by Mikel Arteta, are chasing their first major trophy in years and sit atop the Premier League
with a strong push in multiple competitions. Arteta has called it a "mission" to overcome Chelsea here. The Gunners are unbeaten in their last nine matches across all competitions and have dominated recent head-to-heads as the Gunners are unbeaten in the last nine meetings across all competitions.
Historically, the teams have met six times in the EFL Cup, with Chelsea progressing from four ties, but Arsenal won the most recent semi-final encounter in 2017-18.
The tie is delicately poised, with the second leg at the Emirates on February 3. A positive result here could give either side a huge advantage, given the intensity of this rivalry.
Chelsea vs Arsenal Team News
Chelsea will be without Moises Caicedo (suspended), Levi Colwill (long-term knee), and Romeo Lavia (thigh). Cole Palmer, Reece James, and Malo Gusto are doubts ahead of the London derby, with late decisions expected. Marc Cucurella returns from suspension.
Arsenal face defensive concerns: William Saliba is a major doubt (undisclosed issue), while Piero Hincapie, Riccardo Calafiori, and Cristhian Mosquera are out or unlikely. Leandro Trossard is also doubtful. New signing Viktor Gyokeres may start, with Kai Havertz available after injury return. Arsenal's depth remains strong, especially in attack as Kai Havertz would be eager to make a strong mark against his old club.
Chelsea vs Arsenal Prediction
This should be an intense, competitive clash with goals likely due to both teams' attacking quality and defensive vulnerabilities. Arsenal's current momentum, superior league position, and strong recent record against Chelsea give them the edge, especially if they manage their injury issues. Earlier in the league, the Gunners only managed a 1-1 draw against a 10-man Blues, which indicates it will be even stevens at Stamford Bridge.
But for this match, the North London club may come away with the W and head into the Emirates leg with an advantage.
Score prediction: Chelsea 1-3 Arsenal
