Chelsea survived a major scare against a spirited Cardiff City side, ultimately securing their place in the Carabao Cup semi-finals with a 3-1 victory. The Blues, fielding a completely changed lineup from their weekend win against Everton, were forced to rely on the firepower of their substitutes, Alejandro Garnacho and Pedro Neto, to overcome the League One leaders.

Cardiff, buoyed by a five-match winning streak and a desire to claim a Premier League scalp after defeating Burnley in the previous round, started brightly. In front of a packed house – their first since being relegated from the Premier League in 2019 – the Bluebirds showed no fear against their expensively assembled opponents.

Cardiff created several early chances, with Callum Robinson narrowly failing to connect with a cross and Isaak Davies firing wide after breaking clear. Davies had another opportunity, but his shot drifted wide of the target. The home side's positive play continued, with Filip Jorgensen, Chelsea's goalkeeper, forced into a save from a deflected cross and a header from ex-Arsenal defender Calum Chambers. Chelsea, in contrast, struggled to find their rhythm in the first half, with only Tyrique George posing a threat.

Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca introduced substitutes Joao Pedro and Alejandro Garnacho at halftime in an attempt to inject some life into his team. The change almost paid immediate dividends, with Garnacho finding space from a pass by Facundo Buonanotte, but it was not until later that the Argentine forward would make his mark.

Cardiff took a shock lead in the 75th minute when David Turnbull, on his first goal in 13 months, fired home, sending the home fans into raptures. However, their joy was short-lived. Chelsea responded just eight minutes later, with Pedro Neto firing a low drive into the net to restore the visitor's lead.

In stoppage time, Garnacho sealed the victory for Chelsea, scoring his first of two goals to end Cardiff's brave resistance. He then added his second in the dying moments to make the final score 3-1.

Chelsea will now look forward to the semi-final draw, as they chase their first Carabao Cup triumph in a decade. While the victory ensures Chelsea's progression, the performance served as a reminder that there is still work to be done if they are to achieve their ambitions this season.