Cardiff vs Chelsea: Predictions, Betting odds, Lineups, Preview

Explore Coral's detailed preview for Cardiff vs Chelsea in the League Cup. Stats, odds, predictions, and lineups for the 20:00 GMT match.

• Fixture: Cardiff vs Chelsea
• Date: Tuesday, 16 December 2025
• Kick-off: 20:00 GMT
• Venue: Cardiff City Stadium

Cardiff come into this match with a strong run of form in the Carabao Cup, having won their last four games. Their recent victories against Wrexham and Burnley away from home show they can handle pressure and perform well on the road. Cardiff's style of play has been effective, with a solid defensive structure and quick transitions to attack, which could pose problems for Chelsea's backline.

Chelsea have also been in good form in this competition, securing wins against Wolves and Lincoln. Their attacking prowess was evident in the 4-3 victory over Wolves, suggesting they could outscore Cardiff if the game turns into a high-scoring affair. However, their recent results also show they can be vulnerable at the back, which Cardiff might look to exploit. This match could be closely contested, with both teams capable of scoring.

Cardiff have been in excellent form, winning their last four Carabao Cup matches. Their ability to secure victories both at home and away, including against strong opposition such as Burnley, indicates a confident, well-drilled team. This positive run could boost their morale and performance against Chelsea, as they look to continue their winning streak.

Recent League Cup Results:

• Win: 2-1 vs Wrexham (A)

• Win: 2-1 vs Burnley (A)

• Win: 3-0 vs Cheltenham (H)

• Win: 2-1 vs Swindon Town (H)

Chelsea have shown they can score goals, as demonstrated in their thrilling 4-3 win against Wolves. However, their recent results also highlight some defensive frailties, which could be a concern against a Cardiff side that has been scoring consistently. Chelsea will need to tighten up at the back if they are to secure a victory in this match.

Recent League Cup Results:

• Win: 4-3 vs Wolves (A)
• Win: 2-1 vs Lincoln (A)

The head-to-head record between Cardiff and Chelsea shows clear dominance for Chelsea, with four wins in the last four encounters. In these matches, Chelsea has scored 12 goals compared to Cardiff's 4. This historical advantage could give Chelsea a psychological edge going into the game.

Recent Results

• Cardiff 1-2 Chelsea (31 Mar 2019) - Premier League

• Chelsea 4-1 Cardiff (15 Sep 2018) - Premier League

• Cardiff 1-2 Chelsea (11 May 2014) - Premier League

• Chelsea 4-1 Cardiff (19 Oct 2013) - Premier League

• Isaak Davies (Hamstring) - Out

• Perry Ng (Muscle) - Out

• Gabriel Osho (Knee) - Out

• Mykhailo Mudryk (Suspended) - Out

• Dário Essugo (Thigh) - Out

• Levi Colwill (Knee) - Out

• Liam Delap (Shoulder) - Out

• Roméo Lavia (Thigh) - Out

• Predicted lineup: Trott (GK), Ng (DF), Fish (DF), Chambers (DF), Bagan (DF), Ashford (MF), Turnbull(MF), Wintle (MF), Robertson (MF), Colwill (MF), Salech (AT)

Cardiff's predicted lineup suggests a focus on maintaining a solid defensive structure while utilising quick transitions to attack. The inclusion of Colwill in midfield indicates a strategy to control the game's tempo and provide creative outlets.

• Predicted lineup: Jorgensen (GK), Gusto (DF), Acheampong (DF), Adarabioyo (DF), Hato (DF), Caicedo (MF), Santos (MF), Buonanotte (MF), Gittens (MF), Estêvão (AT), George (AT)

Chelsea's lineup hints at an attacking approach, with Estêvão and George leading the line. The midfield combination of Santos and Buonanotte suggests a focus on maintaining possession and creating scoring opportunities.

• Salech vs Acheampong: This will be a crucial battle between Cardiff's forward Salech and Chelsea's defender Acheampong.

• Ng vs Gittens: The duel between Cardiff's Ng and Chelsea's Gittens could be pivotal in determining the game's flow.

• Colwill (Cardiff): Colwill's role in midfield will be vital for Cardiff, as he looks to control the game and provide a creative spark.

• Buonanotte (Chelsea): Buonanotte's ability to influence the game from midfield will be key for Chelsea, as he aims to unlock Cardiff's defence.

Cardiff vs Chelsea at 20:00 GMT on Tuesday, 16 December 2025, will be broadcast live for viewers in the UK on Sky Sports Main Event, Sky Sports Football and Sky Sports Ultra HDR.

Coral is predicting that the score will be Cardiff 1-2 Chelsea.

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Odds and market details are accurate as of the time of publication.