Cole Palmer promises to be back after dip in form.
Image credit: Chelsea Stats
Chelsea continue their Europa Conference League journey with a trip to Denmark to face FC Copenhagen in the first leg of their Round of 16 tie at Parken Stadium.
The Blues dominated the league phase, winning all six matches, while Copenhagen had to battle past Heidenheim in the playoffs to reach this stage.
Copenhagen’s Strong Home Form
Copenhagen may not be favorites, but they’ve been solid at home, winning six of their last nine matches at Parken.
🇩🇰 Copenhagen have won 5 of their last 6 games at home across all competitions 🏡#UECL | @FCKobenhavn pic.twitter.com/t6zxPRk1ue
— UEFA Conference League (@Conf_League) March 3, 2025
They currently lead the Danish league and are heading into the Championship Playoffs.
After overturning a first-leg loss to Heidenheim with a 3-1 extra-time win, they’ll be confident of causing an upset.
However, they have fitness concerns over Andreas Cornelius and Roony Bardghji, while Jordan Larsson remains sidelined.
Expect Giorgi Gocholeishvili, Mohamed Elyounoussi, and Elias Achouri to support Amin Chiakha in attack.
Chelsea’s Road Struggles
Despite cruising through the group stage with 18 points, Chelsea’s form has dipped.
They’ve lost three of their last four games and haven’t won away from home in their last seven outings, losing five.
Thursday will be our first match against Copenhagen since 2011. ⏮️🇩🇰 pic.twitter.com/aqkj9aysUR
— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) March 4, 2025
A 4-0 win over Southampton provided a brief morale boost, but defensive vulnerabilities remain a concern.
Enzo Maresca will be without key players like Benoit Badiashile, Trevoh Chalobah, and Gabriel Slonina.
Nicolas Jackson and Noni Madueke are also ruled out, meaning Pedro Neto could lead the line, flanked by Jadon Sancho and Christopher Nkunku.
Prediction: Can Chelsea Overcome Their Away Woes?
Copenhagen’s home strength could trouble Chelsea, but the Blues’ superior squad depth should give them the edge.
Expect goals at both ends, but Chelsea’s firepower should see them through.
🛑 Prediction: Copenhagen 1-3 Chelsea
Chelsea’s quality should shine, despite their inconsistency.
Copenhagen will make it tough, but the Blues are likely to take a crucial first-leg advantage.