Chelsea Edge Copenhagen 2-1 in Conference League First Leg
Chelsea took a significant step toward the UEFA Conference League quarter-finals with a 2-1 victory over FC Copenhagen in their last-16 first-leg clash. It wasn’t the smoothest of performances, but crucial second-half goals from Reece James and Enzo Fernández gave the Blues the edge heading into the return leg at Stamford Bridge.
The first half was largely uneventful, with Chelsea struggling to break through Copenhagen’s defensive setup. Enzo Maresca’s side looked sluggish, creating very few clear-cut chances, and managing just two shots on goal. The home team, backed by a lively crowd, stayed compact and even threatened on the counter. However, Maresca made a bold move at halftime, bringing on key players like Christopher Nkunku, Levi Colwill, and Enzo Fernández—a decision that immediately paid off.
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Within a minute of the restart, Chelsea found their breakthrough. A quick attack saw Marc Cucurella’s cutback land at the feet of Reece James, who drilled a low shot into the bottom corner from 25 yards. It was a captain’s goal, and the traveling Chelsea fans erupted in celebration. The momentum was now firmly with the Blues.
Copenhagen responded almost instantly, coming agonizingly close to equalizing when Viktor Claesson struck the inside of the post. But Chelsea capitalized on their dominant spell. A slick move involving Tyrique George set up Enzo Fernández, who curled a beautiful strike into the top corner, doubling Chelsea’s lead. At that point, it looked like the visitors would take a comfortable advantage back to London.
However, Chelsea’s tendency to switch off defensively came back to haunt them. With just over 10 minutes left, Copenhagen’s Gabriel Pereira rose highest to head home from a free-kick, making it 2-1. The Danish side pushed for an equalizer, but Chelsea held firm to secure the win.
While Chelsea will be pleased with the result, Maresca will know his side must improve their consistency if they want to go all the way in this competition. The second leg at Stamford Bridge is set up nicely, but with just a one-goal advantage, Chelsea can’t afford to take anything for granted.
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