Football/Nkunku hat-trick powers Chelsea Past Barrow into Carabao Cup fourth round
Chelsea cruised into the fourth round of the Carabao Cup with a dominant 5-0 win over League Two side Barrow at Stamford Bridge, thanks to a hat-trick from Christopher Nkunku.
The Frenchman doubled Chelsea’s lead shortly after with a deft flick from Malo Gusto’s cross, and an own goal by Barrow goalkeeper Paul Farman—after Félix’s free-kick hit the post—sent the Blues into the break with a 3-0 lead.
Pedro Neto added a fourth just after halftime, converting a pass from Mykhailo Mudryk.
Nkunku completed his hat-trick in the 75th minute, capitalizing on a mistake by Farman to score into an open net.
This marked Nkunku’s first start since Chelsea’s season opener, bringing his tally to six goals in eight appearances.
Despite Barrow’s strong run in the competition, including a victory over Championship side Derby County in the previous round, they were no match for Chelsea, who fielded a heavily rotated squad.
Barrow had a few chances, with Emile Acquah volleying over and Kian Spence testing Chelsea’s backup goalkeeper Filip Jorgensen with two free-kicks.
Chelsea also saw the return of Ben Chilwell, making his first appearance since April. Manager Enzo Maresca, who had previously said the defender might struggle for minutes, praised Chilwell’s attitude and hinted at further opportunities.
Chelsea now prepare for their upcoming Premier League clash with Brighton, while Barrow will face Gillingham in League Two.
