Our football expert brings you an exciting preview of the EFL Cup first-leg semifinals kicking off on Tuesday 9 January 2017.
The first legs of the Carabao Cup semi-finals feature Championship outfit Manchester City hosting Bristol City on Tuesday, followed by the London derby with Chelsea taking on Arsenal at Stamford Bridge on Wednesday.
Tuesday 9 January
Though Bristol City deserve respect, the top three contenders were hoping to draw them in the semi-finals, but it’s Manchester City who have the draw on their side. Pep Guardiola’s squad, packed with stars, are clear favourites to move on to the final. However, Bristol City shouldn’t be underestimated, especially after their stunning victory over holders Manchester United.
Bristol City, competing in England’s second tier, battled hard to reach this stage. They crushed League One side Plymouth Argyle 5-0 at Ashton Gate and then defeated Premier League teams Watford 3-2 at Vicarage Road, before eliminating Stoke City (2-0), Crystal Palace (4-1), and Manchester United (2-1) at their home ground.
Manchester City have not shone in this League Cup season and have experienced some luck along the way, including penalty shoot-out wins against Wolves and Leicester following a Leroy Sane brace to overcome West Brom at the Hawthorns. Guardiola will surely expect more from his team and aims to secure a solid advantage when they visit Ashton Gate. Backing the runaway Premier League leaders for a Half-time/Full-time Win at 5/10 is a smart move.
Wednesday 10 January
The London rivals Chelsea and Arsenal clash again at Stamford Bridge on Wednesday night. Their September Premier League meeting ended goalless, but Antonio Conte will be eager for a win over Arsene Wenger’s side this time. In their last League Cup encounter back in 2013, Chelsea secured a 2-0 win at Emirates, courtesy of Juan Mata and Cesar Azpilicueta.
Chelsea have been dominant in their last six home matches against Arsenal, winning five and conceding only twice in those games while scoring 15. Conte’s team has played all three Carabao Cup matches at home this season, thrashing Nottingham Forest 5-1 and edging Everton and Bournemouth 2-1. Conversely, this is Arsenal’s first away League Cup fixture, having previously beaten Doncaster Rovers 1-0, Norwich City 2-1 after extra time, and West Ham 1-0. Expect a tight contest but tip Chelsea to claim the first-leg victory.
DOUBLE @ 17/10
Man City HT-FT Win 5/10
Chelsea Win 8/10
