Chelsea vs Arsenal at Stamford Bridge in the first leg of the 2025–26 EFL Cup (Carabao Cup) semi-final. The Blues go into this London derby eager to take a positive result ahead of the return leg at the Emirates.
Newly appointed head coach Liam Rosenior has started strongly after a convincing 5–1 FA Cup win over Charlton in his first match in charge, giving Chelsea confidence ahead of this knockout test.
Arsenal arrive in excellent overall form, riding high domestically and buoyed by recent attacking performances — including a hat-trick for Gabriel Martinelli in their FA Cup win over Portsmouth.
Riding their unbeaten streak and boasting a strong squad, Mikel Arteta’s team will aim for a result that puts them firmly in control before the second leg.
Chelsea vs Arsenal – Date, Time, Predictions, and More
| Match | Chelsea vs Arsenal |
|---|---|
| Competition | EFL Cup – 2025/26 Semi-Final (1st Leg) |
| Date | Wednesday, 14 January 2026 |
| Kick-off | 20:00 GMT / 20:00 UK Time |
| Venue | Stamford Bridge, London, England |
Team News
Chelsea Team News
- Injuries / Suspensions: Marc Cucurella is suspended and unavailable, while Levi Colwill is still out with a knee injury. These defensive setbacks might push Rosenior to make changes at the back.
- Positive updates: Cole Palmer, recently rested in the FA Cup, is expected to return to the starting XI, giving Chelsea a boost in attack. Enzo Fernández, influential in midfield, should also start and play a crucial role in both providing defensive cover and creating chances.
- Tactical note: Rosenior will probably set Chelsea up with a tight midfield and an attacking style built around quick transitions and making the most of space out wide.
Arsenal Team News
- Arsenal arrive largely fit, with strong squad depth allowing Arteta flexibility. Kai Havertz has returned from injury and been influential in training, providing an extra attacking option for this tie.
- Mikel Arteta faces selection decisions in attack — picking between key forward options like Viktor Gyokeres, Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus — but Martinelli’s recent scoring form makes him a near-certainty to start.
- Tactical note: Arsenal are likely to control possession through midfield with their pressing game and wide attackers posing constant threats on transitions.
Chelsea vs Arsenal Starting XIs
Chelsea – 4-2-3-1
GK: Robert Sánchez;
DEF: Reece James, Wesley Fofana, Trevoh Chalobah, Jorrel Hato;
MID: Moisés Caicedo, Enzo Fernández;
AMF/W: Cole Palmer, Andrey Santos, Alejandro Garnacho;
ST: Liam Delap.
Arsenal – 4-2-3-1
GK: David Raya / club choice;
DEF: Timber, Saliba, Gabriel, Lewis-Skelly;
MID: Rice, Zubimendi;
AMF: Odegaard;
WINGs: Saka, Martinelli;
ST: Viktor Gyokeres / rotation.
📱 One-line mobile summary
Chelsea XI: GK; RB, CB, CB, LB; DM, DM; RW, AM, LW; ST — Arsenal XI: GK; RB, CB, CB, LB; DM, DM; RW, AM, LW; ST
Key Players to Watch
Chelsea
- Cole Palmer (AMF) – Creative hub and goal threat returning to start after rest.
- Enzo Fernández (CM) – Drives transitions and contributes both in attack and defensive midfield phases.
Arsenal
- Gabriel Martinelli (FW) – In electric form with goals and work rate to unsettle defences.
- Kai Havertz (AMF/FW) – Return from injury gives Arteta flexibility and adds scoring options.
Match Prediction
This tie looks finely balanced: Chelsea will be eager to make home advantage count under their new coach, while Arsenal’s unbeaten momentum and attacking depth tip the scales in their favour.
- Predicted Score: Chelsea 1–2 Arsenal
Rationale: Arsenal’s consistency and rhythm across competitions, combined with their pressing and forward pace, give them the edge in a close, competitive semi-final first leg.
Where to Watch Chelsea vs Arsenal
- UK: Sky Sports Main Event / Sky Sports Football — live coverage with pre-match build-up.
- USA & Global: EFL Cup coverage varies by region — check local listings and official broadcasters.
- Streaming: Sky Go / Now TV (UK) provides live streaming options.