Chelsea advanced to the third round of the Carabao Cup after securing a comfortable 2-0 victory over Luton Town at Stamford Bridge on Wednesday night.

The result also marked a winning start to competitive football at home for new head coach Xabi Alonso, whose team dominated possession and created several opportunities throughout the encounter.

Chelsea had to wait until after the break to find a breakthrough despite controlling much of the first half.

Cole Palmer was particularly influential, testing goalkeeper Josh Keeley on multiple occasions, while Morgan Rogers came close when his effort struck the crossbar.

The hosts eventually took the lead five minutes into the second half.

Estevao Willian combined brilliantly with Malo Gusto before the full-back delivered a precise cross into the penalty area.

Danny Welbeck, making his Chelsea debut, rose highest to head the ball beyond Keeley.

Luton struggled to create clear openings as Chelsea maintained control of the game.

Alonso then introduced Jorrel Hato, Romeo Lavia and Pedro Neto as the Blues looked to maintain their intensity.

Chelsea doubled their advantage in the 79th minute.

Estevao cut inside and unleashed a low effort towards goal, with the shot taking a decisive deflection off Luton defender Hakeem Odoffin before finding the net.

Palmer continued searching for a goal but was repeatedly denied by Keeley, while Jamie Gittens later struck the post.

Chelsea will now face Leeds United in the Carabao Cup third round at Stamford Bridge.

Their next assignment is a Premier League meeting with Brighton on Sunday.