Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso says belief led to victory in their comeback win.

In the third round of the Carabao Cup, Chelsea, playing at Stamford Bridge, defeated Leeds United 6-3. Manager Xabi Alonso praised the team's belief that led to the victory after the match.

Alonso rotated nine key players in this match, causing the team to lose its rhythm in the first half and concede a goal first; just two minutes into the second half, Leeds United scored again to extend their lead.

Faced with a desperate situation, Chelsea launched a counter-attack, with Cole Palmer scoring twice, Pedro Neto putting Chelsea ahead, Danny Welbeck adding two goals, and Valentin Barco scoring his first goal for the club. In the end, Chelsea won by a large margin and advanced to the next round.

In response to the passive performance caused by the significant changes in the starting lineup, Alonso took responsibility in a post-match interview: "The situation in the first half did not go as expected. I made the starting lineup, so the responsibility lies entirely with me. I should be the one to be criticized, not the players."

"There were too many new combinations on the field at the time, and it was my problem that they didn't work out. I won't blame anyone's attitude in the game."

Trailing at halftime, Alonso decisively brought on four key players: Palmer, Neto, James, and Rodgers, completely turning the tide of the game. Speaking about this crucial adjustment and the second-half comeback, Alonso said, "Leeds United's pressing was extremely aggressive."

"Our substitutions were designed to bring energy, intensity, and pace to the game, and they did an excellent job. After conceding the second goal, the team showed a very good ability to respond."

"Once we score a goal, the players' confidence returns, and their decisions become more rational. The support from the home fans gives us a huge boost, and this belief is key to winning."

Image source: Internet/BBC official website