Kenya, Aug. 28 -- Chelsea Football Club is set to face League One side Lincoln City in the third round of the 2025-26 Carabao Cup, marking their first competitive meeting since a scoreless draw in 1911. Scheduled for September at LNER Stadium, this matchup pits Enzo Maresca's Premier League squad against Michael Skubala's in-form Lincoln City, who have earned 10 points from five League One games.
This rare encounter has sparked excitement among fans, blending nostalgia for the historic 1911 draw with anticipation for a thrilling cup clash. The 2025-26 Carabao Cup third round sees Chelsea, fresh off a strong Premier League campaign, entering the competition alongside other European-qualified clubs.
Enzo Maresca, known for his tactical flexibility, is likely to use this match to rotate his squad, giving fringe players valuable minutes amid a congested fixture list that includes Champions League commitments. The LNER Stadium, Lincoln City's home ground, will host this historic clash, offering a unique challenge for Chelsea as they navigate the intimate 10,000-capacity venue, a stark contrast to Stamford Bridge's grandeur.
Lincoln City, under Michael Skubala's guidance, has started the League One season impressively, securing three wins and a draw in its opening five matches.
Their attacking flair and defensive solidity make them a potential banana skin for Chelsea. The 2025-26 Carabao Cup has already seen upsets, with Manchester United falling to fourth-division Grimsby Town, fueling Lincoln's hopes of a giant-killing.
Fans on platforms like X have been buzzing, with some recalling the 1911 draw and others predicting a spirited performance from the Imps, who are eager to test themselves against top-tier opposition.
This matchup carries historical weight, as Chelsea and Lincoln City last met competitively over a century ago. The 1911 scoreless draw, played in a vastly different footballing era, adds a layer of intrigue to this modern encounter.
Chelsea, aiming to add to their eight Carabao Cup titles, will need to approach the game with focus to avoid complacency. Meanwhile, Lincoln City sees this as a golden opportunity to make headlines and progress in the competition, potentially earning a lucrative fourth-round tie.
The excitement surrounding the Chelsea vs Lincoln City clash extends beyond the pitch. Social media posts highlight the nostalgic appeal of this rare matchup, with fans sharing archival images of the 1911 game and debating potential lineups.
For Chelsea, the 2025-26 Carabao Cup offers a chance to build momentum under Maresca, while Lincoln City aims to channel their League One form into a memorable upset at LNER Stadium.
As the September clash approaches, anticipation continues to build. Chelsea's squad rotation strategy will be key, with Maresca likely to blend youth and experience to navigate the challenge posed by Lincoln City.
The Imps, buoyed by their strong start and home support, are determined to make this a competitive affair. The 2025-26 Carabao Cup third round promises drama, and this matchup could deliver a classic cup encounter.
The Chelsea vs Lincoln City matchup in the 2025-26 Carabao Cup is a fascinating blend of history and ambition. The LNER Stadium will be the stage for a clash that revives a rivalry dormant since 1911.
Lincoln City, with their impressive League One form, will look to capitalise on their home advantage and pull off a shock. For Chelsea, this game is a chance to showcase squad depth while respecting the threat posed by a determined Lincoln City side.
Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Bana Kenya.