Chelsea are through to the UEFA Conference League quarter-finals after a 1-0 second-leg victory over Copenhagen at Stamford Bridge. This result sealed a 3-1 aggregate win, maintaining their flawless run in the competition. While it wasn’t the most convincing performance, Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall’s second-half goal ensured the job was done as the Blues now set their sights on European glory.
A Cautious First Half with Little to Offer
Copenhagen, coming off a disappointing 1-1 draw against Sønderjyske in the Danish Superliga, had to overturn a 2-1 deficit from the first leg. Surprisingly, they started with intent, pressing high and unsettling Chelsea. However, despite their energy, chances were rare in a lackluster first half.
Chelsea, despite their superior squad quality, struggled to create clear-cut opportunities. The combination of Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall and Jadon Sancho offered glimpses of danger, but their best moment—a low cross into the box—was easily dealt with by the Copenhagen defense. The visitors finally registered the first effort on target in the dying minutes of the first half through Viktor Claesson, whose header was comfortably saved by Filip Jörgensen.
Dewsbury-Hall Breaks the Deadlock
With Chelsea lacking attacking firepower, Enzo Maresca introduced Cole Palmer for the second half. Palmer, who has not found the net since mid-January, brought fresh energy, raising hopes among the home crowd. However, it was Dewsbury-Hall who made the difference.
Just before the hour mark, the former Leicester City midfielder picked up the ball and weaved his way past defenders, benefiting from a bit of fortune before slotting a low effort into the far post. The goal, his third in Chelsea colors, effectively ended Copenhagen’s hopes of a comeback.
Chelsea then controlled the pace, with Palmer coming close to doubling the lead, but his curled effort drifted wide. From then on, the match lacked intensity as the Blues calmly saw out the win.
Copenhagen’s Struggles Continue, Chelsea Looks to Build Momentum
A fourth consecutive game without a win adds to Copenhagen’s woes. Their elimination from the Conference League compounds their struggles in domestic competition, where they have fallen off the pace. While they showed heart, they simply lacked the cutting edge to trouble Chelsea over two legs.
For the Blues, this marks a fourth consecutive victory in all competitions. After a turbulent period earlier in the season, Chelsea seems to be finding rhythm at the right time. The quarter-finals await, and with their 100% European record intact, fans will hope this momentum carries into their Premier League campaign.
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