DERBY – Chelsea swept into the semi-finals of the English League Cup today, joining third-tier Sheffield United in the last four after its shock win over Premier League side Southampton.
Eliminated at the quarter-final stage in three of the previous four seasons, Chelsea made no mistake this time as goals by Eden Hazard, Filipe Luis and Andre Schuerrle secured a 3-1 win at second-tier Derby.
Derby, managed by former England coach Steve McClaren, were reduced to ten men in the 78th minute just as they were threatening a comeback at 2-1. Yet Chelsea mostly coasted through the game at Pride Park, with the Premier League leaders’ victory marred by injuries to centre back Kurt Zouma and striker Didier Drogba.
Southampton’s meltdown after a brilliant start to the Premier League season continued with a 1-0 loss at United, which emulated their achievement of last season when the team reached the semi-finals of the FA Cup.
Marc McNulty scored a 63rd-minute winner for United, while defender Florin Gardos was shown a straight red card for Southampton in the 90th.
Tomorrow, Liverpool visit second-tier Bournemouth and Tottenham host Newcastle.
