Chelsea vs Arsenal Tips, Bet Builder Predictions & Latest Odds
Chelsea and Arsenal lock horns in the first leg of their EFL Cup semi-final tie on Wednesday evening at Stamford Bridge.
Having both safely negotiated passages to the FA Cup fourth round last weekend against Championship opposition (Charlton and Portsmouth), the two fierce London rivals will look to seize control in the League Cup.
Neither side will give an inch, and it should make for a pulsating encounter. Take advantage of our tips and free bets available in the run-up to kick-off.
Chelsea vs Arsenal Tips
Tip 1: Arsenal to Win by 1 Goal
After a rather drab goalless encounter with Liverpool, Arsenal made light work of Portsmouth at Fratton Park in the FA Cup, surging to a 4-1 win.
Once again, the Gunners demonstrated their prowess from set-pieces, scoring three times from corners.
Mikel Arteta may have made 10 changes from the side that drew with Liverpool, but their quality proved to be too much for Pompey.
Chelsea had little issue against Charlton, securing an emphatic 5-1 victory, and it heralded a new era with Liam Rosenior taking his managerial bow for the Blues. Intriguingly, he became the first Chelsea manager since Antonio Conte in August 2016 to win his opening game in charge of the club.
The draw has been a popular result in recent times, with both sides sharing the spoils in the past three encounters in West London (all Premier League).
However, given the way Arsenal have been going this season, I’m backing them to come out on top and to prevail by one goal, which has a tempting price.
Tip 2: Gabriel Martinelli Anytime Goalscorer
With nine goals to his name in all competitions this term, Gabriel Martinelli has been putting forward a strong case to start ahead of Viktor Gyokeres.
He took his hat-trick well against Portsmouth, although he could have ended up with four, had he not side-footed against the post with the goal at his mercy.
The Brazilian forward previously netted against the Blues in the league in 2024, and he could make an impact once again at the Bridge this week.
I’ve gone for the Martinelli to net anytime which carries some value.
Tip 3: Cole Palmer 2+ Shots on Target, Arsenal to Win, Gabriel Martinelli Anytime Goalscorer
Cole Palmer is invariably a threat, and while injuries have restricted his involvement this term, he could be lively against the Gunners. Open your bet builder with Palmer to have 2+ shots on target.
Arsenal haven’t lost at the Bridge since 2018, and they’ve often looked comfortable. Given their imperious form, the away team to win the first leg is a distinct possibility.
Wrap things up with Martinelli to score anytime. The treble against Portsmouth underlined his threat in front of goal, and he has netted against Chelsea before.
Chelsea vs Arsenal Odds
Check out the latest odds from our pick of sports betting sites ahead of Wednesday's semi-final.
Where to Watch Chelsea vs Arsenal
Here's a look at how you can watch the game on Wednesday.
TV Channel
The Chelsea vs Arsenal match is being broadcast live on Sky Sports in the United Kingdom, as shown in the TV guide for Arsenal’s fixtures including this Carabao Cup tie.
Live Stream Information
For UK fans live streaming Chelsea vs Arsenal, you can watch via Sky Go if you have a Sky Sports subscription or through NOW TV with a Sky Sports Day, Week or Month Pass. These official streaming options require a valid subscription and will carry the live feed of the match as broadcast by Sky Sports.
Chelsea vs Arsenal Match Information
Here's everything you need to know before kick-off.
Kick-Off Time
The Carabao Cup semi-final first leg between Chelsea and Arsenal kicks off at 8 :00 pm, with fans advised to be ready beforehand for pre-match build-up from the broadcasters.
Fixture Date
The fixture takes place on Wednesday 14th January 2026, forming the first leg of the two-legged Carabao Cup semi-final clash between Chelsea and Arsenal at Stamford Bridge.
Stadium
Chelsea are hosting Arsenal at Stamford Bridge, with the Blues playing at their home ground in West London for this Carabao Cup semi-final tie.
More Football Tips
Be sure to check out the rest of our football betting tips this week.
