Chelsea vs Wimbledon: 3 things to look out for in EFL Cup opener

A matchup against a lower-tier side like Wimbledon provides the chance to build momentum into the clash vs. Nottingham Forest over the weekend. Considering it is an unfamiliar opponent, here are three things to look out for on Wednesday night.

3 things to look out for against AFC Wimbledon

3. Chelsea’s goalkeeping situation

As of this past week, CFC has a new goalkeeper in town. Former New England Revolution stop stopper, Djordje Petrovic arrives with the current lead in Major League Soccer in total saves. At just £14m, the Blues received a goalkeeper with the ability to overtake Robert Sanchez in net at some point this season.

Last season in New England, the Serbian saved almost two-thirds of a goal more than expected per 90 minutes. With his 6-foot-4 frame, the former MLS keeper has a chance to solidify a role as the club’s No. 1. The ex-Brighton and Hove Albion man has been announced by the club as the man in goal on Wednesday due to the Serbian not having his work permit ready in time.

Sanchez has not impressed in the slightest so far, making each game critical if he seeks to keep this role through the end of the year. There may not be much action for Chelsea’s shot-stoppers, but the performance has to be considered an intriguing topic leading up to this fixture.

2. Wimbledon’s new No. 7 James Tilley

Fans of the west London side are most likely taking this match as a free space in the game BINGO. While it may be that, it does not mean the Dons have not been a solid football team in the early portions of this new campaign. The south-west London side is one of three teams in the fourth-tier of English football without a loss through five matches.