Top 4 English manager has been finally sacked today after loosing game In an unexpected turnaround in the premier League this evening

Chelsea faces an uphill battle to secure a spot in the Carabao Cup final after suffering a defeat to Championship side Middlesbrough in the first leg of the semi-final. Hayden Hackney capitalized on lackluster defending from the Blues to give Boro the lead in the first half, a lead that proved decisive in the initial encounter.

Manager Mauricio Pochettino made three alterations to the starting lineup from the previous match against Preston North End, with Thiago Silva, Noni Madueke, and Conor Gallagher returning for the clash at the Riverside Stadium.

Cole Palmer operated as Chelsea’s false nine, actively involved in the game from the outset. Despite his involvement, Chelsea’s No. 20 found himself thwarted by Boro goalkeeper Tom Glover after a promising exchange initiated by Madueke on the right flank.

Palmer’s off-the-ball contributions were commendable, as he frequently dropped deep to retrieve possession, allowing teammates like Madueke and Raheem Sterling to exploit the central areas of the pitch.

However, Palmer missed a golden opportunity to give Chelsea the lead just before halftime, failing to convert after intercepting a loose ball from Jonny Howson.

Boro capitalized on Chelsea’s defensive lapses to extend their lead through Hackney before halftime, with Levi Colwill coming under scrutiny for his defensive shortcomings.

Colwill’s struggles at left-back raise questions about Chelsea’s decision to loan out Ian Maatsen, especially given the team’s shortage of options in that position.

Despite Palmer’s involvement in creating chances, including four shots on goal, Chelsea failed to capitalize on their opportunities in front of goal, with the 21-year-old notably squandering two clear-cut chances.

In the second half, Chelsea’s approach shifted towards delivering crosses into the box, albeit without a dominant presence to capitalize on the deliveries.

Substitutions were made in a bid to alter the course of the game, with Armando Broja introduced to bolster the attack, but Chelsea’s efforts remained unrewarded as they struggled to breach Boro’s defense.

Defensively, Chelsea appeared vulnerable, allowing Boro to exploit disorganization and capitalize on defensive errors.

The Blues must regroup for the second leg in a fortnight’s time, where they will have the opportunity to rectify their shortcomings and overturn the deficit at Stamford Bridge.