Chelsea is becoming addicted to Kepa Arrizabalaga’s ability to inspire them in shootouts. The Spaniard became at fault as Southampton equalized, allowing Che Adams an equalizer. He then made a succession of magnificent saves inside the second half, and he finished as the hero. Reece James clinically sent Fraser Forster the wrong way in the shootout, rendering Mason Mount’s omission inside the shootout irrelevant. This was Chelsea’s third Carabao Cup win on penalties this season, following victories over Villarreal in the Super Cup and Aston Villa in the final round of this competition. Theo Havertz was once again dragged into service as a phony No 9 for Mauricio Pochettino’s side. The 22-year-old had a good run and shot from 20 yards, which swerved inches past the post. Chelsea’s young lower back three of James, Trevoh Chalobah, and Malang Sarr were exposed as a nervous presence under pressure.
Steinberg, J. (2021, October 26). Kepa Arrizabalaga the Hero And Villain As Chelsea Scrape Past Southampton | Carabao Cup | The Guardian. the Guardian.
