LONDON: Chelsea were almost humiliated by third division club Lincoln City before coming back to record a 2-1 victory in the third round of the League Cup early this morning.
The Blues are on the brink of a shock relegation after manager Enzo Maresca made eight changes following a 1-2 defeat to Manchester United last weekend.
Chelsea fell behind in the 42nd minute after Enzo Fernandez’s mistimed pass in his own area was intercepted by Ivan Varfolomeev before the ball was passed to Rob Street who calmly beat goalkeeper Filip Jorgensen.
This situation adds to the pressure on Chelsea, who previously lost two consecutive matches against United and Bayern Munich.
However, the revival came as soon as the second half began.
Tyrique George equalized in the 48th minute with a volley that hit the post before hitting the goal.
Shortly after, Facundo Buonanotte displayed an outstanding individual performance to break through the Lincoln defence before scoring the winning goal in the 50th minute.
“I’ve told the players it won’t be an easy match. That’s why I’m disappointed with the first half performance.
“However, overall they managed to get back up and do the job,” Maresca said after the match.