Chelsea’s unbeaten run continues with their seven straight win in the competition.
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Chelsea took a crucial step toward the UEFA Conference League quarter-finals with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over FC Copenhagen in Denmark.
Goals from Reece James and Enzo Fernández secured the win, but a late strike from the hosts keeps the tie alive ahead of the second leg at Stamford Bridge.
Slow Start, Tactical Adjustments
Chelsea struggled to impose themselves in the first half, with Enzo Maresca’s side lacking creativity and cohesion.
Copenhagen, backed by a lively home crowd, pressed aggressively and limited the Blues to half-chances.
Sensing the need for change, Maresca made three substitutions at halftime, introducing Reece James, Christopher Nkunku, and Enzo Fernández. The impact was immediate.
James and Fernández Deliver the Goods
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Barely a minute into the second half, James announced his return with a stunning 25-yard strike, breaking the deadlock and igniting Chelsea’s attack.
The goal injected much-needed confidence, and Chelsea started to dictate play.
In the 65th minute, Enzo Fernández doubled the lead with a well-placed finish after excellent work from Nkunku and Tyrique George.
The Argentine midfielder’s goal looked to have sealed a comfortable win for the visitors.
Late Setback Keeps Copenhagen in the Tie
Despite their dominance in the second half, Chelsea’s defensive fragility was exposed late in the game.
Copenhagen’s Gabriel Pereira took advantage of poor marking, heading in a crucial goal in the 85th minute to give the Danish side hope heading into the return leg.
Chelsea will take a narrow advantage back to Stamford Bridge, but Maresca will be wary of his side’s inconsistency.
Defensive lapses remain a concern, and Copenhagen’s late goal could prove pivotal in the second leg.
What’s Next?
The two sides will meet again at Stamford Bridge next week, with Chelsea looking to finish the job and advance to the quarter-finals.
The Blues remain favorites, but Copenhagen’s resilience suggests they won’t go down without a fight.
Stay tuned to Football Catchup for the latest updates on Chelsea’s European campaign.