Chelsea began their League Cup campaign with a 2-0 victory over third-tier Luton Town on Thursday, with Danny Welbeck scoring on his debut in Xabi Alonso’s first competitive home match as manager. Welbeck broke the deadlock shortly after half-time, powering a header from Malo Gusto’s cross past the Luton defence to open his Chelsea account. Alonso named a strong starting line-up, with Cole Palmer, Morgan Rogers and captain Reece James all featuring as Chelsea controlled possession from the opening minutes. Palmer and Estevao missed chances before Rogers struck the crossbar just before half-time as Chelsea struggled to turn their dominance into goals. Luton defended resolutely for much of the match, but Chelsea eventually found a breakthrough after the interval. Welbeck’s emphatic header changed the momentum and put the hosts firmly in control. IMF Review Mission expected in Pakistan next month to assess $7bn programme Estevao then sealed the victory 10 minutes from time after weaving into the penalty area and shooting towards goal. The effort was ultimately recorded as an own goal by Luton defender Hakeem Odoffin. Chelsea will face Leeds United in the third round. “We want to have a complete squad in all aspects, in quality, maturity, personality, young players with experienced players,” Alonso said. He praised the energy of his players and the support from the home crowd as Chelsea continued their preparations for the season. Alonso did not comment on reports surrounding Enzo Fernandez and goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez. Fernandez was absent from the squad amid speculation linking him with a move to Manchester City, while Martinez has reportedly been targeted by Chelsea. Elsewhere, Fulham reached the third round with a 3-0 win over AFC Wimbledon. Emile Smith Rowe headed Fulham into an early lead from Kenny Tete’s cross before Rodrigo Muniz doubled the advantage before half-time with another header from a Tete delivery. The goal was Muniz’s first in more than a year and helped give new Fulham manager Alvaro Arbeloa his first victory in charge. Arbeloa made 10 changes following Monday’s Premier League defeat by Chelsea, while summer signing Gonzalo Garcia completed the scoring in stoppage time. Fulham will meet West Ham United in the next round. Post navigation Lionel Messi: Emotional goal honours late father as Inter Miami draw with Philadelphia
