Christopher Nkunku’s Hat-Trick Powers Chelsea Past Barrow

Christopher Nkunku’s hat-trick led Chelsea to a commanding 5-0 win over League Two side Barrow, propelling them into the fourth round of the Carabao Cup at Stamford Bridge. Nkunku opened the scoring in the eighth minute with a composed finish after a chipped pass from Joao Felix. He quickly added a second, flicking Malo Gusto’s low cross into the net.

A Felix free-kick then hit the post and rebounded off Barrow goalkeeper Paul Farman to give Chelsea a 3-0 lead at halftime. Early in the second half, Pedro Neto scored his first goal for Chelsea tapping in after a pass from Mykhailo Mudryk. Nkunku completed his hat-trick in the 75th minute by tackling Farman and slotting the ball into an empty net. The 26-year-old Frenchman now has six goals in eight appearances for Chelsea this season.

Christopher Nkunku’s first start since the opening-day defeat to Manchester City highlighted Chelsea’s dominance with the team making 11 changes from their Premier League win over West Ham. Despite being 64 places below Chelsea in the English football pyramid, Barrow fought bravely with Emile Acquah volleying a chance over and Kian Spence testing Chelsea keeper Filip Jorgensen with two free-kicks.

Barrow, who last reached this stage of the EFL Cup in 1967 brought a spirited away following having traveled 300 miles from Cumbria. However, they were outmatched by Chelsea, who were playing their first EFL Cup match since losing the 2024 final to Liverpool. Out-of-favor defender Ben Chilwell made his first appearance since April coming on as captain in the second half.

Manager Enzo Maresca, previously critical of Chilwell’s future at the club, said post-match that the defender “is ready and working well.” Chelsea next face Brighton in the Premier League while Barrow visit Gillingham.