The 2025 EFL Cup (Carabao Cup) continues with a David vs. Goliath matchup as Lincoln City welcome Chelsea to the LNER Stadium for a Round 3 clash. The Imps will look to stun one of England’s giants, while the Blues aim to advance comfortably and keep their cup campaign alive.
Match Information
- Fixture: Lincoln City vs Chelsea – EFL Cup Round 3
- Date: Tuesday, September 23, 2025
- Kickoff Time: 2:45 PM ET (7:45 PM BST local time)
- Venue: LNER Stadium, Lincoln, Lincolnshire
- Referee: Matt Donohue
How to Watch Lincoln City vs Chelsea Live
- United States: Watch live and exclusively on Paramount+.
- United Kingdom: Expected broadcast on Sky Sports Football and streaming via NOW TV.
- International: Coverage on ESPN (South America), DAZN (Canada), Viaplay (Scandinavia), beIN Sports (MENA), and other local partners.
👉 Paramount+ subscribers in the U.S. will have full access to every EFL Cup game, including Lincoln vs Chelsea.
Match Preview
Lincoln City
Lincoln enter this game as massive underdogs, but the EFL Cup has a history of upsets. The home support at LNER Stadium will look to push the Imps to their best performance, hoping to exploit any rotation Chelsea might make.
Chelsea
The Blues come into this fixture as strong favorites, though manager Enzo Maresca is expected to rotate his squad. With key players like Cole Palmer’s fitness being monitored “day by day”, fringe players and rising academy stars could get opportunities. Chelsea’s squad depth, however, makes them overwhelming favorites to progress.
Key Storylines
- Giant-Killing Opportunity: Can Lincoln pull off a shock upset under the lights at LNER Stadium?
- Chelsea Rotation: With Premier League and European fixtures looming, squad players could be given a chance.
- Palmer’s Availability: His fitness is a big question, and Chelsea may be cautious with his involvement.
Prediction
Chelsea’s quality and depth should prove too much for Lincoln, even with squad rotation. Expect a competitive start from the Imps, but the Blues’ attack will likely take control.
Predicted Score: Lincoln City 0-3 Chelsea