- Chelsea Survive Major Upset to Beat League One Lincoln
- Enzo Fernandez error leads to Lincoln’s first-half opener.
- George and Buonanotte rescue Blues in shaky display.
Premier League side Chelsea narrowly escaped an upset in the Carabao Cup as they came from behind to beat third-tier Lincoln City 2-1 and book their spot in the fourth round.
Eko Hot Blog reports that the Blues were given a real test by League One’s Lincoln, who sit 40 places below them in the football league system.
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EKO HOT BLOG reports that the underdogs outplayed Chelsea for large parts of the match, and even took a deserved lead just before half-time when Rob Street punished a shocking mistake from World Cup winner Enzo Fernandez.
Chelsea’s shaky start saw Lewis Montsma strike the post inside the opening two minutes, and the Blues’ defence struggled to deal with Lincoln’s direct style and long throws.
Goalkeeper Filip Jorgensen also looked uncomfortable throughout.
However, the London side responded quickly after the break. Youngster Tyrique George blasted in a stunning strike from the edge of the area to make it 1-1 in the 48th minute.
Just two minutes later, George turned provider as he assisted Facundo Buonanotte, who calmly finished to complete the turnaround.
Despite the quick goals, Lincoln continued to threaten. Freddie Draper missed two close-range chances, and Chelsea remained vulnerable.
A late error from Jorgensen nearly proved costly when he spilled a routine pass, only for Francis Okoronkwo to miss an open goal.
Maresca will be relieved his team avoided a major embarrassment.
