Chelsea booked their place in the Carabao Cup quarter-finals with a 4-3 win over Wolves, despite a late scare, with Andrey Santos and Jamie Gittens scoring their first goals for the Blues.

Chelsea progressed to the Carabao Cup quarter-finals with a thrilling 4-3 win over Wolves, despite a late scare. The Blues dominated the first half, with Andrey Santos opening the scoring inside five minutes, and Tyrique George and Estevao adding to the lead before the break.

Santos’ goal set the tone for an impressive first-half performance, with Wolves struggling to cope with Chelsea’s high press and harrying. Gittens played a key role, setting up Santos and laying the ball on a plate for George to score.

However, the momentum shifted dramatically in the second half, with Wolves mounting a spirited comeback. Tolu Arokodare pulled one back for the hosts, and David Moller Wolfe added to the pressure, firing in a goal to reduce the deficit.

Liam Delap’s return to the side was cut short, with the forward sent off for two bookable offences. But Chelsea held firm, with Gittens scoring his first goal for the Blues, blasting in from range to make it 4-2.

Wolfe got his second of the night in added time, but Chelsea’s ten men held on to secure their place in the quarter-finals. The Carabao Cup win sets up a quarter-final tie with Cardiff, and Chelsea will be looking to continue their good form. 

The Blues will be pleased with the win, but Maresca knows there is much work to do.