The stage is set at the LNER Stadium as Lincoln City welcome Chelsea in the EFL Cup third round, a clash between a League One high-flyer and a Premier League heavyweight. For Lincoln, it’s a chance to test their momentum against top-flight opposition, while Chelsea will be looking to avoid an upset and steady themselves after a mixed start to the season, Softfootball reports.
For Lincoln, confidence is sky-high. Mark Kennedy’s men are on a ten-match unbeaten run across all competitions, and their home form has been particularly impressive, with the LNER Stadium becoming something of a fortress. James Collins, their leading scorer this term, has been central to that run, and his sharp eye for goal will be key if Lincoln are to dream of pulling off a shock against the Blues.
Encouragingly, the Imps have turned their ground into a difficult hunting ground for visitors, but the history books remind us that Lincoln haven’t faced Chelsea competitively since 1911, and they’ve beaten them just once in eight meetings.
Lincoln confirmed XI to face Chelsea, as posted on the club’s official X handle, see below:
Chelsea, meanwhile, approach this fixture with squad rotation on their minds. Enzo Maresca’s side have gone through a tough schedule, losing to Bayern Munich in the Champions League and Manchester United in the Premier League. Still, their depth remains very strong, with young talents like Estevão Willian and Alejandro Garnacho pushing for places and eager to impress. Chelsea have also built a reputation for navigating these domestic cup ties efficiently, and another win here would extend their run of strong early-round performances.
Chelsea confirmed XI to face Lincoln City, as shared via the club’s official X handle, see below:
Injuries may shape the contest. Lincoln could be without Jack Moylan and Dom Jefferies, while Chelsea are missing Robert Sánchez through suspension and remain without Romeo Lavia, Levi Colwill, and Liam Delap due to injuries. For Lincoln, Collins’ finishing will be crucial, while Chelsea’s attack looks to Garnacho and Esteavo who often comes alive in the second half.
On paper, the odds lean heavily toward Chelsea, but Lincoln’s form and home strength suggest this could be closer than expected. With knockout tension in the air, the Imps will believe they can trouble their illustrious visitors. Still, Chelsea’s quality and depth may prove decisive. But in a cup tie under the floodlights, anything can happen.
