AS.com

Chelsea went through to the semi-finals of the Capital One Cup, overcoming their old rivals, Leeds United, 1-5 at Elland Road. Spanish players Juan Mata and Fernando Torres started and finished Chelsea's advantage as Benítez' team managed to put aside their jet lag and disappointment at losing out to Corinthians in the Club World Cup final.

At first glance, a game between the current European Champions and a side sitting in twelfth place in the Championship would suggest a stroll in the park for Benítez' men, but a rivalry that goes back decades meant it was always going to be a different story. There was also added spice to the game courtesy of the strained relationship between Benítez and Neil Warnock from their days at Liverpool and Sheffield United. The whole issue of the pre-match handshake came under scrutiny before the game, but both obliged and the game got underway in the pouring rain. In the first half it was Leeds that took the game to the away side as they looked to hit on the break; they got their just rewards in the 37th minute through the Argentinian player Luciano Becchio.

Chelsea, however, woke from their slumber in the second half and drew level through Juan Mata's strike. They never looked back after that as their quality began to shine through. The Serbian Branislav Ivanovic headed home from a corner in the 64th minute then Moses made it three two minutes later. Belgian player Eden Hazard made it four in the 81st minute and Fernando Torres completed the rout a few minutes later by making it five.