Middlesbrough host Chelsea in the first leg of the EFL Cup quarterfinals. It's worth noting that Middlesbrough is the only non-Premier League team in this year's quarterfinals, and their strength is far from the other three teams. They tried to challenge Aston Villa in the last round of EFL Cup, but unfortunately lost. Although they have the advantage of home field tonight, it will be difficult for them to make a difference. The "Blue Warriors", on the other hand, are back in form and have rarely lost against lower-tier opponents in recent years, so they are expected to turn the tables and a win on the road is not to be underestimated. (The match will be broadcast live on HOY TV 77 at 4:00 a.m. on Wednesday.)
Chelsea is in the reorganization stage this season, and its performance has really disappointed the fans. However, after half a season of integration, the team's recent performance has gradually stabilized. In the last round of EFL Cup, Chelsea beat Preston 4-0 at home, realizing their second three consecutive wins this season. The attacking line led by Golpenma, Staanen and Medilli is starting to show a tacit understanding and has scored 9 goals recently, which is a full firepower.
In fact, there is no need to question the quality of Chelsea's players. Against the lower level teams, they seldom lose, including the Championship team Preston, which has just been eliminated. Chelsea has been undefeated in 28 consecutive matches against lower-tier teams in the Local Cup. In addition, Chelsea has won all the past 9 matches between the two teams and shut out the opponents in all the 9 matches, so Middlesbrough has no chance to fight back.
