Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.An 84th-minute Eden Hazard goal, that spun into the net after a heavy deflection, earned Chelsea a place in the League Cup semi-finals after a 1-0 win over Bournemouth in an entertaining tie on Wednesday.
Chelsea had buzzed round the Bournemouth goal for much of the game but it was not until substitute Hazard came on with half an hour to go that they looked creative and decisive enough to break through.
Chelsea had piled on the pressure from the start and there were good chances for Olivier Giroud, Ross Barkley, who forced a diving save from Artur Boruc and Willian, who surged forward from the halfway line after 30 minutes only for Boruc to block his rising shot.
Bournemouth looked dangerous on the break and Callum Wilson ran through on goal in the 17th minute but pulled his shot wide.
A scampering run from Jordon Ibe opened up the Chelsea defence 20 minutes later and Chelsea keeper Kepa Arrizabalaga had to fly to his left to keep out Lys Mousset's curling shot.
Ruben Loftus-Cheek, playing in a forward role, looked certain to break the deadlock early in the second half after rounding two players but his shot flew inches past Boruc's post.
Chelsea brought on first Pedro then Hazard and it was a combination of the Spaniard and Belgium's Hazard that made the goal.
It was the first home game since alleged racist taunts against Manchester City's Raheem Sterling prompted an outcry and Chelsea banned four fans.
Chelsea Chairman Bruce Buck took a page in the programme to condemn racism and the atmosphere in the ground was lively but appeared good humoured with no added security in evidence.
Retuers
What time does it start?
Chelsea vs Bournemouth kicks off at 7:45pm (GMT)
Where can I watch it?
The match will be shown live on TV or online in the UK but Independent Sport will keep you up to date with all the goals as they fly in via our live blog.
Player to watch…
Olivier Giroud: The French World Cup-winner went on a run of four goals in three Europa League games, but has rarely seen minutes in the Premier League this season. However, with injuries to Alvaro Morata and Eden Hazard, it's likely that the Frenchman will be called up for the match of Maurizio Sarri is intent on taking the competition seriously.
Form guide…
Chelsea: WLWDW
Bournemouth: LLWLL
Odds…
Chelsea to win: 1/3
Bournemouth to win: 8/1
Draw: 4/1
65 minutes: Arsenal 0-2 Spurs
Young Arsenal forward Eddie Nketiah is on for midfielder Guendouzi.
68 minutes: Chelsea 0-0 Bournemouth
Maurizio Sarri isn't at all happy on the touchline at Stamford Bridge. His side look like they're in need of some inspiration.
71 minutes: Chelsea 0-0 Bournemouth
Half a chance for Bournemouth as Ryan Fraser shoots over from just outside the box. Is there a winner in this? Remember we go straight to penalties if it's level after 90 minutes.
70 minutes: Arsenal 0-2 Spurs
Arsenal are attempting to turn the screw here but Spurs are standing firm.
73 minutes: Chelsea 0-0 Bournemouth
Josh King replaces Lys Mousset in Bournemouth's second change of the night.
74 minutes: Chelsea 0-0 Bournemouth
Bournemouth want a penalty at Stamford Bridge as Wilson's shot is blocked by Azpilicueta. Nothing given.
73 minutes: Arsenal 0-2 Spurs
Some unsavoury scenes at the Emirates as Dele Alli appears to have been hit by an object thrown by an Arsenal fan.
Sokratis moves him away from the situation before Alli turns around to remind the Arsenal supporter of the score. If the home fans weren't wound up, they are now.
77 minutes: Chelsea 0-0 Bournemouth
More great play from Bournemouth, who will feel they deserve to be level at the very least here.
Wilson slides in Fraser who looks to play the ball back to the England forward inside the box before Rudiger clears.
76 minutes: Arsenal 0-2 Spurs
Scenes reminiscent of Jordan Pickford's blunder at Anfield. Aubameyang's attempted cross from the left bounces onto the bar and into play, but Spurs are able to clear.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments