Chelsea return to European action as they face FC Copenhagen in the UEFA Conference League round of 16. The Blues are aiming to become the first club to win the Champions League, Europa League, and Conference League. With a perfect group stage campaign behind them, Enzo Maresca’s side will look to continue their dominance in the knockout phase.
However, injuries and squad changes since December have left Chelsea with limited options. Let’s take a closer look at the expected lineup for their first-leg clash in Denmark.
Chelsea’s Journey in the Conference League
Flawless Group Stage Performance
Chelsea topped their group in style, winning all six matches and scoring an impressive 26 goals. Despite their strong European form, their domestic performances have been inconsistent.
Recent Form and Squad Challenges
Since their last European outing, Chelsea’s Premier League form has dipped. They now find themselves in fifth place, fighting for a Champions League spot. January transfers and injuries have also reduced Maresca’s rotation options.
Predicted Chelsea Lineup vs. Copenhagen
Goalkeeper
- GK: Robert Sánchez – Filip Jörgensen has taken over as the Premier League starter, making Sánchez the first-choice goalkeeper for Conference League matches.
Defenders
- RB: Malo Gusto – The Frenchman will start at right-back, providing attacking width and defensive stability.
- CB: Josh Acheampong – The academy talent gets another European start, bringing youthful energy to the backline.
- CB: Tosin Adarabioyo – With Levi Colwill needing a rest, Adarabioyo will be the senior leader in defense.
- LB: Marc Cucurella – Injuries mean Cucurella is Chelsea’s only available left-back, so he will have to push through a demanding schedule.
Midfield
- CM: Reece James – Maresca is expected to deploy Chelsea’s captain in midfield, allowing Moisés Caicedo to rest.
- CM: Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall – The former Leicester City player gets a rare start in an all-English midfield pivot.
Forwards
- RW: Tyrique George – The young winger is making waves after grabbing his first Premier League assist against Southampton.
- AM: Christopher Nkunku – Nkunku has five goals in the competition and will be a key attacking threat.
- LW: Jadon Sancho – Struggling for consistency, Sancho will aim to impress and boost his confidence.
- ST: Pedro Neto – The Portuguese forward will lead the line, using his pace and creativity to trouble Copenhagen’s defense.
Key Players to Watch
Christopher Nkunku
Nkunku has been Chelsea’s star in the Conference League. With five goals so far, he is in contention for the competition’s golden boot.
Tyrique George
The teenager has been gaining confidence and could use this match to further establish himself in the first team.
Tosin Adarabioyo
With limited defensive options, Adarabioyo’s leadership will be crucial in maintaining Chelsea’s defensive shape.
Tactical Approach Against Copenhagen
Possession-Based Football
Maresca’s Chelsea side prefers controlling possession and building play from the back. Expect them to dictate tempo against Copenhagen.
Pressing High and Quick Transitions
Chelsea will likely press high, forcing turnovers and creating quick counterattacks.
Exploiting Width
With Gusto and Cucurella pushing forward, Chelsea will aim to stretch Copenhagen’s defense and deliver crosses into the box.
Copenhagen’s Strengths and Weaknesses
Strengths
- Strong home record in European competitions
- Well-organized defense
- Quick counterattacks
Weaknesses
- Struggles against high-pressing teams
- Vulnerable on the wings
- Lack of squad depth compared to Chelsea
Match Prediction
Given Chelsea’s quality, they are favorites to win. However, Copenhagen will provide a tough challenge, especially at home. A narrow 2-1 victory for Chelsea seems likely.
Conclusion
Chelsea’s road to a historic treble in European competitions continues with this crucial Conference League clash. Despite injuries and squad limitations, they remain the favorites. A solid performance in Denmark will set the stage for a comfortable second leg at Stamford Bridge.
FAQs
1. What time is Chelsea vs. Copenhagen?
Kickoff time depends on UEFA scheduling, but it’s typically in the evening for European matches.
2. Who is Chelsea’s top scorer in the Conference League?
Christopher Nkunku leads the charts with five goals so far.
3. Will Enzo Maresca rotate the squad?
Due to injuries and departures, heavy rotation is unlikely.
4. How can I watch the match live?
The match will be available on major sports networks and streaming services.
5. What is Chelsea’s biggest challenge in the Conference League?
Squad depth and fixture congestion could be Chelsea’s biggest obstacles.
