Chelsea continued their prolific start to the season with a 6-3 victory over Leeds United in the third round of the League Cup on September 9, showcasing a potent attacking display under new head coach Xabi Alonso. Since taking charge at Stamford Bridge over the summer, Alonso’s team has netted 16 goals in five matches across all competitions, winning four, as they advanced to the tournament's fourth round.
Chelsea fell behind early to strikes from Tarik Muharemovic and Brenden Aaronson but responded decisively after halftime. Cole Palmer, who converted a penalty before scoring a second goal shortly after, sparked the comeback. Pedro Neto then gave Chelsea the lead, followed by goals from Danny Welbeck, Valentin Barco, and a second from Welbeck to seal the win. Leeds’ Dominic Calvert-Lewin also scored, but it was not enough to prevent elimination.
The introduction of Palmer, Neto, and Morgan Rogers at halftime was pivotal, with all three players immediately troubling Leeds’ defense. Rogers, signed from Aston Villa during the transfer window, provided three assists in the match and credited Alonso with invigorating the squad. “It’s so enjoyable to play with high-caliber players that are here. I’m enjoying my football, trying to be free, and showing what I’m about,” said Rogers. “Playing with a smile and playing free. Good things are happening at the moment, so it’s nice. It’s a really enjoyable team to play in.”
Palmer, a close friend of Rogers from their time in the Manchester City academy, described the team’s attacking style as a significant improvement from the prior season. “I’m enjoying it. All the attacking players, it’s a lot different for us. I think we still have a bit to go, but we are getting results, which is the main thing,” he stated.
Alonso emphasized the importance of the chemistry between Palmer and Rogers, both 24, highlighting how their understanding benefits the team. The Spanish coach also acknowledged the risks he took by making nine changes to the lineup for the cup tie. “There were so many changes. There was a risk,” Alonso said. “Things weren’t going the way we planned, so we had to change at halftime. I take responsibility for the first half. They knew they weren’t starting and they were ready to make an impact. I’m happy with the result and the reaction.”
Leeds manager Daniel Farke, who also implemented several changes to his squad, noted the need for better defensive focus. “It was a very equal game. The focus and detail could have been better,” Farke remarked. “We tried to come back, but small, small details made the difference today.”
The match highlighted Chelsea’s attacking potential under Alonso as they look to build momentum, while Leeds will aim to strengthen their defensive resilience moving forward.