In a season where the Premier League title race is not the sole focus, the spotlight turns to the highly anticipated Carabao Cup final between Chelsea and Liverpool at Wembley Stadium on Sunday. Both teams enter the clash with contrasting forms, with Liverpool enjoying a strong run while Chelsea seeks stability. Cup finals, however, possess a unique magic, making anything possible when these football giants collide.
Match Preview
The Blues enter the final nursing the wounds of a recent 4-1 defeat to Liverpool in the Premier League, adding intensity to manager Mauricio Pochettino’s demand for a response from his squad. Inconsistent form throughout the season prompts key players like Conor Gallagher and Cole Palmer to rediscover their scoring prowess, while the defense must tighten up against Liverpool’s potent attack.
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Jurgen Klopp’s side, currently leading the Premier League, rides high on confidence following their recent victory over Chelsea. Despite their stellar form, Klopp’s men must not underestimate their opponents. The lethal form of Mohamed Salah and Luis Diaz, especially in their link-up play, will be pivotal in unlocking the Chelsea defense.
In more positive news, Pochettino’s men carry a three-game unbeaten streak to Wembley, securing consecutive 3-1 victories over Aston Villa (FA Cup) and Crystal Palace (Premier League) before earning a hard-fought 1-1 draw with Manchester City.
Kick-off Time
The match is scheduled to kick off at 4:00 pm (GMT+1) on Sunday and will be broadcast live on various sports channels.
Team News
Chelsea’s commendable defensive display at the Etihad came despite selection concerns at the back. Benoit Badiashile (groin), Reece James (thigh), Wesley Fofana (knee), Thiago Silva (groin), and Marc Cucurella (ankle) were absent, with only the latter having a slim chance of returning.
Djordje Petkovic, impressing in Robert Sanchez’s absence, is expected to retain his goalkeeping position.
Liverpool faces an injury crisis with Alisson Becker, Joel Matip, Trent Alexander-Arnold, Diogo Jota, and Curtis Jones ruled out. Mohamed Salah and Darwin Nunez’s availability remains uncertain.
Regardless of fitness levels, Cody Gakpo, with four goals in the competition, and Harvey Elliott, who impressed against Luton, are poised for starting roles at Wembley.
Possible Starting Lineups
Chelsea:
Petrovic; Gusto, Disasi, Colwill, Chilwell; Caicedo, Fernandez; Palmer, Gallagher, Sterling; Jackson
Liverpool:
Kelleher; Bradley, Konate, Van Dijk, Robertson; Gravenberch, Endo, Mac Allister; Elliott, Gakpo, Diaz