Chelsea extended their flawless run in the UEFA Conference League with a composed 2-1 win over Copenhagen in the first leg of their Round of 16 clash. The Blues, despite their struggles away from home in recent months, produced a strong second-half display to take control of the tie ahead of the return leg at Stamford Bridge.
Cagey First Half as Chelsea Struggle to Break Through
Parken Stadium was buzzing with energy as the home fans rallied behind Copenhagen, hoping to push their team towards an upset. Chelsea, seeking their first away victory since mid-December, dominated possession but found it tough to create meaningful chances. The biggest blow for the visitors came early when Malo Gusto was forced off due to injury in the 25th minute.
On the other hand, Copenhagen looked lively on the counter, with Amin Chiakha forcing the best opening of the half. However, both teams went into the break without any real breakthrough, setting up an intense second period.
Reece James Breaks the Deadlock
Chelsea returned from the interval with renewed intensity, thanks to three crucial changes from Enzo Maresca. The adjustments paid off almost immediately. Two minutes into the second half, Marc Cucurella made a decisive run down the left before cutting the ball back into the path of Reece James. The Chelsea captain unleashed a precise first-time strike into the bottom corner, giving his side the lead with their first shot on target.
However, Copenhagen nearly struck back instantly through Viktor Claesson, whose close-range shot bounced off the inside of the post, sparing Chelsea from an immediate setback. That near-miss served as a wake-up call for the visitors, who tightened up their defensive structure while continuing to probe for a second goal.
Enzo Fernandez Doubles Chelsea’s Lead
With momentum on their side, Chelsea continued pressing high, forcing Copenhagen into errors. Their persistence bore fruit in the 66th minute when Tyrique George capitalized on a misplaced pass in the hosts’ defensive third. He quickly set up Enzo Fernández, who calmly slotted a side-footed shot into the net to extend Chelsea’s advantage.
At that moment, it seemed like the Blues would cruise to a clean-sheet victory, but Copenhagen had other ideas.
Gabriel Pereira Pulls One Back for Copenhagen
With 10 minutes remaining, Copenhagen found a way back into the contest through a well-executed set piece. Marcos López delivered an inviting cross that Gabriel Pereira rose highest to meet, heading past Robert Sánchez to halve the deficit. The goal breathed life into the Danish side, who pushed for an equalizer in the dying moments, but Chelsea managed to hold firm and see out the victory.
Chelsea in the Driving Seat for Quarterfinal Spot
While Chelsea will be pleased with the win, the late Copenhagen goal means the tie is far from over. The Danish champions have been resilient at home but will now face an uphill battle at Stamford Bridge, where Chelsea will look to complete the job and book their place in the UEFA Conference League quarterfinals.
For Chelsea, this victory marks a crucial step in their European campaign, reaffirming their status as one of the tournament’s frontrunners. With a strong squad and growing confidence, the Blues remain on course for silverware this season.
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