Chelsea showcased their prowess in the Conference League with a commanding 4-2 victory over Belgian side KAA Gent at Stamford Bridge. The win highlighted the Blues’ strong position as favorites, with four different players getting on the scoresheet.
The match marked the fourth occasion in ten games this season where Chelsea scored four or more goals. The Blues faced an initial challenge from Gent’s high press, which restricted their options early on. However, the breakthrough came when Renato Veiga headed in his first goal for Chelsea, capitalizing on a well-flighted cross from Mykhailo Mudryk.
Following Chelsea’s opening goal, Gent shifted tactics, allowing Chelsea to dominate possession. Yet, as the visitors grew in confidence, England U20 international Archie Brown attempted a low shot, and Andri Gudjohnsen, the son of Chelsea legend Eidur, nearly leveled the score with a shot that sailed just over the bar.
The match picked up momentum after halftime. Just 38 seconds after the restart, Pedro Neto struck, extending Chelsea’s lead. However, Gent responded quickly; Tsuyoshi Watanabe headed in a cross from Gudjohnsen to cut the deficit in a VAR-reviewed goal.
Not long after, Christopher Nkunku netted Chelsea’s third goal, taking advantage of a defensive lapse from Gent. Shortly thereafter, Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall secured the fourth for Chelsea after a slip-up from goalkeeper Davy Roef allowed his shot to find the back of the net. Despite conceding a late goal from Gent’s Omri Gandelman, Chelsea held firm to secure the victory.
Maresca Discusses Team’s Performance
Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca shared his thoughts on the match, saying, “It was a good performance in what proved to be a tough game. It’s unfortunate about the second goal we conceded; we need to improve on that. Each game presents challenges, and while we did well, we have aspects we can refine—both in attack and defense.”
Maresca also reassured that players not involved in this match would still be considered for future games, emphasizing squad depth.
Dewsbury-Hall Reflects on Notable Evening
Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, who scored his first goal for Chelsea, expressed his joy, stating, “I’m over the moon. Scoring tonight was incredible, and I won’t forget this moment. I work hard every day, and while I want more playing time, it’s essential that I keep giving the manager options.”
He praised Chelsea’s high standards and exceptional teammates, reflecting, “Playing with top players who understand the game elevates me. Enzo Maresca is a breath of fresh air, infusing passion and motivation into the squad. You can see how much the players are buying into his vision.”
With this impressive win, Chelsea continues their strong campaign in the Conference League, and spirits are high as they look ahead to future challenges.
Credit: Sky News
