Benoit Badiashile scores on his return as Chelsea defeats Blackburn 2-0 to advance to the Carabao Cup quarter-finals.

Benoit Badiashile returned in style, opening Chelsea's Carabao Cup win with his first-season appearance, while Reece James also shone in their 2-0 victory against Blackburn at Stamford Bridge.

Having been sidelined since May's Nottingham Forest clash, the French defender made an impact at both ends of the field. Raheem Sterling's goal after halftime sealed the win, despite Blackburn's sturdy defense that couldn't threaten a comeback.

This marked Chelsea's 24th quarter-final in 33 attempts, inching them closer to securing their first League Cup since 2015, during Mauricio Pochettino's tenure at Tottenham.

Meanwhile, Blackburn aimed to surpass their 1997 defeat, rallying with over 3,000 fans at Stamford Bridge for their first League Cup fixture in 26 years.

The game started quietly, with both sides seeking an early advantage. Chelsea tested the goalkeeper after 15 minutes, but it was Badiashile who broke the deadlock after 30 minutes.

Despite attempts from both teams, referee Tim Robinson dismissed penalty claims during the first half.

The second half saw Harry Leonard and Enzo Fernandez strive for Blackburn, but Sterling's strike secured Chelsea's win.

Both teams made tactical changes, with Blackburn lucky to avoid an own goal. Chelsea pressed for a third, while Blackburn's cup campaign ended with Sigurdsson's close attempt in stoppage time.