Goal-fest at Stamford Bridge as Chelsea destroy Middlesbrough to march into Carabao Cup final

In what could be considered a the most crucial game of Mauricio Pochettino's challenging tenure at Chelsea, the Blues had to overturn a 1-0 deficit against a stubborn Boro outfit. 

Initially slow to get into their stride

Initially slow to get into their stride, the Blues found their rhythm, and Ben Chilwell, making his first start in four months, played a key role in the 15th-minute opener. 

Raheem Sterling's cross, originating from Chilwell's defense-splitting pass, led to Amando Broja's goal. Another Broja finish, albeit scuffed, extended Chelsea's lead just before the half-hour mark, with Enzo Fernández converting. 

Axel Disasi's clinical finish and Cole Palmer's goal, capitalizing on a slip from Daniel Barlaser, made it 4-1 before halftime. Palmer added a second, and Noni Madueke punished Middlesbrough's defense for a 6-1 victory. 

Despite Rogers scoring for Boro, Chelsea's win, reaching their 10th EFL Cup final, sets up a mouthwatering clash with either Liverpool or Fulham on February 25th in Wembley.