All you need to know ahead of the London derby where the Blues host the Gunners in first leg of EFL Cup last four
The Carabao Cup 2025/26 reaches a crucial stage on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, when Chelsea and Arsenal lock horns in the first leg of their semi-final at Stamford Bridge. A London derby with silverware aspirations on the line, both teams will be desperate to grab a crucial advantage ahead of the second leg at the Emirates Stadium next month.
This showdown not only pits local pride against each other, but also promises tactical intrigue between two head coaches with contrasting recent experiences.
Chelsea, now under new boss Liam Rosenior, head into this tie following a convincing 5-1 victory over Charlton Athletic in the FA Cup – a morale-boosting result in Rosenior’s early tenure. That win showcased attacking potential and gave supporters hope of an upturn in fortunes after an inconsistent domestic run in recent weeks. Arsenal, meanwhile, arrive full of confidence after a commanding 4-1 FA Cup triumph over Portsmouth and remain unbeaten in all competitions heading into this Carabao Cup semi-final first leg.
How the teams go into the game: form
Chelsea’s form has been a mix of highs and lows. The emphatic FA Cup win brought attacking rhythm and energy, but consistency remains an issue with only one win in their last four domestic outings. The Blues have shown they can score – finding the net in 29 of their last 30 matches – but defensive solidity continues to be a concern.
Arsenal are enjoying a strong run, winning eight of their last nine matches and riding high domestically. A potent attack combining the talents of Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Martinelli, and Viktor Gyökeres – and plenty more options in reserve – gives the Gunners a clear edge in momentum. Their unbeaten sequence across all competitions highlights their consistency and tactical balance under Mikel Arteta.
Head-to-head: Chelsea vs Arsenal
This fixture is one of English football’s most storied rivalries. Historically, Arsenal hold the upper hand in competitive meetings, with more overall wins and recent dominance in head-to-head clashes. Recent Stamford Bridge encounters have also favoured Arsenal, who remain unbeaten there since 2018, adding psychological edge ahead of this semi-final first leg.
Team news: Chelsea vs Arsenal
Chelsea face some selection challenges. Moisés Caicedo is suspended for this match after receiving his second League Cup booking, and the squad also has a few injury doubts going into Wednesday. However, Marc Cucurella returns from ban, and Rosenior has options to refresh his line-up with players like Cole Palmer and Reece James available after recent rest.
Arsenal’s defensive corps has been hit by injuries with Piero Hincapie, Riccardo Calafiori and Max Dowman all ruled out, and Cristhian Mosquera is a doubt. Despite this, Arteta’s side remain potent up front, blending youth and experience in an attack that has been firing on all cylinders this season.
When and where to watch in US & UK
Kick-off for Chelsea vs Arsenal is at 8:00 p.m. GMT on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, at Stamford Bridge in London. ([turn0search4])
In the UK, the match will be broadcast live on Sky Sports Football, with build-up and pre-match analysis available across Sky’s platforms. In the US, viewers can catch the action via Paramount+ or NBC Sports where available, including commentary and expert breakdown before and after kick-off.
With a place in the Carabao Cup final at stake, this first leg promises intensity, derby drama and plenty of narrative as Chelsea aim to upset the in-form Gunners.