Chelsea has taken a crucial first-leg advantage in the Conference League, defeating FC Copenhagen 2-1 in the Danish
capital. The Blues, who are favorites to win the competition, struggled to create chances in the first half but came
alive after the break, thanks in part to a triple substitution by manager Enzo Maresca.
Reece James got Chelsea off to a flying start in the second half, scoring a crisp drive into the bottom corner just 56
seconds after the restart. The goal was a welcome boost for Chelsea, which had struggled to create clear-cut
chances in the first half.
FC Copenhagen threatened to respond immediately, with Viktor Claesson’s shot striking the inside of the post and
landing in the grateful arms of Chelsea goalkeeper Robert Sanchez. However, Chelsea’s intensity eventually
overwhelmed the hosts, and Enzo Fernandez found the top corner to put the Blues in a commanding position.
The goal was a testament to Fernandez’s skill and vision, and it seemed to have put Chelsea in control of the tie.
However, the Blues had themselves to blame for not emerging with a more comfortable advantage, and they were
punished when defender Gabriel Pereira headed a free-kick powerfully past Sanchez on 79 minutes.
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The goal gave FC Copenhagen a glimmer of hope for the return leg at Stamford Bridge next Thursday. Chelsea will be
looking to finish the job and advance to the quarterfinals, but they will need to be more clinical in front of goal and
tighter at the back.
Manager Enzo Maresca made seven changes to the team that beat Southampton at the weekend, and the decision to
bring on Levi Colwill, Christopher Nkunku, and Fernandez at halftime proved to be a masterstroke. The trio added
energy and creativity to the Chelsea attack, and their introduction helped to turn the game in the Blues’ favor.
Despite the win, Chelsea’s performance was not without its concerns. The Blues struggled to create chances in the
first half, and they were guilty of switching off at the back, which allowed FC Copenhagen to score.
Maresca praised the performance of James, who scored the opening goal and was a constant threat down the right
flank. The Chelsea manager also revealed that he sees James as a midfielder, citing his versatility and ability to play
in different positions.
The win was a welcome boost for Chelsea, which has been inconsistent in recent weeks. The Blues will be looking to
build on the result and advance to the quarterfinals of the Conference League
