The first domestic silverware of the season is decided on Sunday when Chelsea clash with London rivals Tottenham in the final of the Capital One Cup at Wembley.
Jose Mourinho led Chelsea to success in this competition back in 2004/05 before taking them to Premiership title glory. They go into the weekend with a five-point lead over champions Man City, although that gap could be reduced to two points this weekend. That won’t be a concern for Mourinho’s side on Sunday as they seek revenge for a painful 5-3 league defeat at White Hart Lane on New Year’s Day.
Much of the media spotlight has focussed on the enforced absence of Matic from this match after his red card against Burnley on Saturday. He was given a two-match ban and his natural replacement, Mikel, is currently injured. Ramires will almost certainly be asked to deputise in the holding role in midfield. Matic did play in that nightmare 5-3 defeat and Chelsea will have to defend a lot better on Sunday. Cahill and Terry were made to look woefully short of pace by Harry Kane who seems to carry Tottenham’s hopes on his shoulders at present.
Mauricio Pochettino attempted to bluff his way into the next round of the Europa League by saving key players for this match. The plan back-fired in spectacular style and their season could be reduced to chasing an elusive top four spot once again if they lose on Sunday.
It is ironic that, in spite of all the money invested on new players, it is Kane that Spurs look to above all others. He will be under enormous pressure to perform this weekend and it would be no surprise to see him score yet again. If he is to justify the hype and wear the England number nine shirt for years to come, he will surely relish a Wembley Cup final. Unfortunately for him, the back-up crew can sometimes be found wanting. They were poor in midweek and were extremely fortunate to save a point at home to West Ham last weekend.
Kane could rock Chelsea with an early goal but I still expect Mourinho’s more experienced side to come back to win. They have plenty of potential goal scorers including Costa and Hazard and can edge to a 2-1 victory.
Best Bets
Chelsea to come from behind and draw or win @15-4 William Hill
Both teams to score @6-7 Unibet
Harry Kane to score first @7-1 Ladbrokes
Chelsea 2 Tottenham 1 @8-1 888Sport
Chelsea to win by one goal @29-10 BetVictor
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