Seven matches, seven wins, Chelsea’s UEFA Europa Conference League campaign is shaping up to be nothing short of dominant. The Blues continued their impeccable run with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Copenhagen, edging closer to the Quarter-Final stage in Europe’s tertiary competition.
The first half was a cagey affair, with neither side able to carve out clear chances. In fact, Copenhagen registered the only shot on target before the break, testing Chelsea’s resolve early on. The Londoners were also dealt a setback when Malo Gusto picked up an injury, forcing Enzo Maresca to bring on Marc Cucurella as an early replacement.
Maresca, however, was not content with his side’s first-half display. At halftime, he made three key changes, introducing Levi Colwill, Enzo Fernandez, and Christopher Nkunku. The adjustments paid off almost immediately. Just a minute into the second half, Reece James broke the deadlock with a precise low drive into the bottom corner, Chelsea’s first shot on target of the evening.
The Blues soon doubled their advantage, capitalizing on a costly Copenhagen turnover in midfield. A well-weighted pass from George found Enzo Fernandez, who showed composure beyond doubt as he slotted the ball past the helpless goalkeeper in the 65th minute.
Despite Chelsea’s control, Copenhagen refused to go down without a fight. In the 79th minute, Magalhaes rose highest to meet a pinpoint set-piece cross from Lopez, heading past Robert Sanchez to pull one back for the hosts. However, the Danish side could not muster an equalizer, ensuring Chelsea walked away with yet another European victory.
As the two teams prepare for the return leg at Stamford Bridge, Chelsea remains in pole position to extend their perfect Conference League record and march confidently toward continental silverware. With Maresca’s tactical nous and the squad’s growing momentum, the Blues are proving they mean business on the European stage.
