Chelsea host Leeds United in the third round of the EFL Cup. The Blues are looking to bounce back from their first defeat under Xabi Alonso (a 2-1 loss at Arsenal) and continue their strong cup form. Leeds arrive unbeaten in all competitions this season and will fancy causing an upset.

Form Guide

• Chelsea: Strong attacking start (multiple high-scoring games) but defensive concerns after conceding regularly. They beat Luton 2-0 in the previous round.
• Leeds United: Solid under Daniel Farke — unbeaten with a mix of wins and draws. They progressed with a 2-0 win at Nottingham Forest in the last round and have been hard to break down.

Chelsea have a strong recent cup record against Leeds and dominate the historical head-to-head at Stamford Bridge (Leeds’ last win there dates back to 1999).

Team News

Chelsea
Out / doubts: Moisés Caicedo, Marco Palestra, Jordan Henderson (wrist), Emmanuel Emegha. Rotation expected after the Arsenal game — possible starts for players such as Danny Welbeck, Estêvão, Valentín Barco and others.

Likely shape (3-4-2-1 or similar): Penders; Acheampong/Lacroix, Colwill, others; Gusto, Lavia/Barco, Chavarría; Palmer/Rogers, Estêvão; Welbeck.

Leeds United
Out: Joe Rodon (hamstring), Ilia Gruev, Mateo Joseph. Ethan Ampadu expected to captain. Possible rotation with Lukas Nmecha or others leading the line.

Likely shape (3-4-2-1): Trafford; Bijol, Elvedi, Muharemović; Bogle, Ampadu, Longstaff, Justin; Wilson, Aaronson; Nmecha.

Prediction

Chelsea 2-1 Leeds United

Chelsea’s home advantage, squad depth and cup pedigree should see them through, though Leeds’ organisation and current form make them dangerous. Expect a competitive game with goals at both ends.