Analysis: Maresca's 'worst' week picks up

Enzo Maresca had come under scrutiny after his unexpected, somewhat cryptic remark had dominated the aftermath of Chelsea's win over Everton, as well as the build-up to this encounter, with the Italian clearly irritated when he was repeatedly asked to clarify his comment during the pre-match news conference on Monday.

That was a distraction, but ultimately, not enough to derail Chelsea here.

Despite making 11 changes from the Everton game, Maresca was still able to name a strong line-up, with the likes of £100m midfielder Moises Caicedo recalled, while the bench was worth close to £400m.

Unimpressed by a first half in which his side barely troubled their League One opponents, the head coach brought on Alejandro Garnacho and Joao Pedro at the interval.

Their introduction immediately added a purpose and sharpness the Chelsea attack had been lacking, with Garnacho forcing Cardiff goalkeeper Nathan Trott into a fine save.

The former Manchester United winger was more clinical with his next effort, finishing well after being put through by Facundo Buonanotte, who had been gifted possession by Dylan Lawlor's loose pass.

Chelsea might have worried an upset was in the offing when the hosts levelled but, to their credit, the Premier League side responded calmly as Pedro Neto powered a shot into the bottom corner, via a deflection off Joel Bagan's heel.

Garnacho's late second arguably flattered the Blues, but they were worthy winners as they took another step closer to winning this trophy for the first time in 10 years.