The crucial second legs in the semi-final stage of the EFL Cup take place across Tuesday and Wednesday. The first side to reach the final of the competition this term will be determined on Tuesday, as Middlesbrough look to successfully defend their 1-0 advantage against Chelsea.
Before Betting On Chelsea vs Middlesbrough
All the pressure will be on Chelsea on Tuesday, as the Blues look to reach a second EFL Cup final in three seasons. The Premier League side will be clearly favored in the betting, despite having lost their first leg showdown against Middlesbrough on January 9.
Boro were excellent in the first meeting between the sides, and their winning goal was netted just before the half time break by Hayden Hackney. They were excellent defensively in that clash, as they restricted the Blues to just five shots on target despite Chelsea having 72% of the possession at the Riverside. That defensive strength could once again be key this week at Stamford Bridge.
However, Boro have won just once in their last two matches since that success, and they were disappointing in their previous league match over the weekend after playing out a 1-1 draw against Rotherham. But, this match was on their mind over the weekend, and that was clear following Michael Carrick’s starting eleven.
Chelsea have enjoyed a lengthy break since they were last in action, as the Blues haven’t played since January 13. They were 1-0 winners against Fulham in their latest match, which was their fourth victory in five across all competitions. However, Chelsea will need to start strong against Boro in this crucial semi-final on Tuesday.
Chelsea vs Middlesbrough Offshore Odds & Pick
Chelsea are extremely short in the betting to get the victory that they require in this second leg on Tuesday. However, it could be worth siding with a shock draw, as Boro have been strong defensively throughout the season.
