‘Subs made an impact, but need to defend better’ Xabi Alonso

11 September,2026 08:57 AM IST |  London  |  Agencies

The Blues were in danger of crashing out following Tarik Muharemovic’s opener and a Brenden Aaronson goal soon after the interval.

Xabi Alonso. Pic/AFP


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Xabi Alonso was not pleased with his side's defensive frailties despite eventually beating Leeds United 6-3 in the EFL Cup here on Wednesday.

The Blues were in danger of crashing out following Tarik Muharemovic's opener and a Brenden Aaronson goal soon after the interval.

Chelsea's Valentin Barco is ecstatic after scoring vs Leeds United on Wednesday. Pic/AFP

But Alonso sent on Cole Palmer, Morgan Rogers, Pedro Neto and Reece James at half-time and the decision inspired Chelsea's stirring escape act. Palmer struck twice to haul Chelsea level and Neto put them ahead before Welbeck made it four. Dominic Calvert-Lewin got one back for Leeds, but Valentin Barco and Welbeck netted to ensure Chelsea moved into the fourth round in style.

"The impact was good from the players that came on. But we want to have better balance, to be more solid, to be able to win in a boring game as well," said Alonso.

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