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      We’re so Chelsea-mad we’ve flown between two war zones to Chinese border to watch our team – and even eaten horse brains

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      DODGING war zones, braving Arctic conditions… and tucking into horse brains.An away day in the outer reaches of Kazakhstan is like no other.Chelsea face Astana 3,700 miles awayCredit: HaytersBlues fans have made the gruelling trip, eating horse brains and drinking Russian beerCredit: HaytersChelsea face Astana in the Conference League today, with die-hard fans embarking on a gruelling 7,000-mile round trip to a far-flung destination close to the Chinese border.Blues supporters are experienced European travellers and they have watched their side clinch continental success on numerous occasions — not least winning the Champions League in 2012 and 2021.Yet this trip provides an equally unforgettable and unique experience for the 500 going.Three flights are needed to get there as direct journeys from London to the city of Almaty are difficult to come by.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLChelsea fans have therefore been forced to get inventive — their 24-hour trip started yesterday with a plane from London to Ankara, Turkey.A seven-hour layover in an eerily quiet terminal until a local time of 2am awaited them before they hopped to board a second flight between two war zones to get to Astana, Kazakhstan’s capital.The route taken goes over the Black and Caspian Seas, using the so-called ‘Middle Corridor’, in order to avoid the Russia-Ukraine conflict in the north and the raging Middle East tensions to the south.That would normally be far enough but Astana’s regular home ground is being renovated and they are instead playing 764 miles away in Almaty’s Central Stadium.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSTouching down just 235 miles away from China, the Chelsea faithful can expect to be greeted by bitterly cold temperatures.Weather forecasts say it will drop to -11C at the time of the game.How Chelsea embarrassed Spurs with Enzo Fernandez leading genius in-game tactical shake-upBut it has not put off Londoner George Higgins, who said it was the allure of visiting a new country that attracted him to the trip.His adventure was pushed over the 24-hour mark by a three-hour delay in London before he finally boarded a flight to Kazakhstan via Istanbul and the Uzbekistan capital Tashkent.In a region five hours ahead of UK time, Almaty is a city that finds itself somewhere between gentrification and post-Soviet greyness.Battered Mercedes estate cars of years gone by fill the roads but there are also modern shopping malls full of familiar brands.We said, ‘We have to go to Kazakhstan’. If Chelsea are going, why shouldn’t we?Chelsea fansIn the back alleys there are a surprising number of English-inspired pubs for fans to enjoy once they have shaken off the jet lag.Over a pint of Russian beer, Norwegian Chelsea fans Knut, Lars, Sven and Anders discuss a week that has seen them ditch the usual pre-match pie for a plate of horse brains.On what drew them to this unique away day, they said: “The trip, mate, the trip. We said, ‘We have to go to Kazakhstan’. If Chelsea are going, why shouldn’t we?Temperatures will hit -11 at kick-offCredit: Hayters“I was actually hoping to qualify for the Conference League because of exactly these types of away days.“You get to watch teams you have never heard of — but you still want the excuse of going somewhere you would never normally go.”It was a very nice journey but a long one.”READ MORE SUN STORIESThe last time Chelsea were near Asia for a  competitive game of football was when they thrashed Arsenal 4-1 in the 2019 Europa League final in Baku,  Azerbaijan.Enzo Maresca and the travelling Blues fans will be hoping the miles on the clock are worth it come May 28 for the Conference League final in Wroclaw, Poland.Chelsea have had to travel to Almaty as Astana’s ground is being redevelopedCredit: HaytersIt is a 24-hour journey from StanstedCredit: Hayters More

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      Enzo Maresca confirms forgotten Chelsea wonderkid, 18, will start against Astana after contract stand-off

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      CHELSEA boss Enzo Maresca has confirmed that Josh Acheampong is set to start against Astana.The Blues will take on the Kazakh side tomorrow in difficult -13C conditions.Enzo Maresca has discussed Josh Acheampong’s futureCredit: GettyAcheampong, 18, is highly-rated at Stamford BridgeCredit: GettyMaresca is set to make several changes to the side that beat Tottenham 4-3 last Sunday, with 11 academy starlets having been added to his Europa Conference League squad.Full-back Acheampong, 18, is set to come in for his first Chelsea start.The England youth international is highly-rated at Stamford Bridge and has made two cameos from the bench for the Blues.But in October it was reported that he had been “frozen out” amid a contract stand off.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHe was recently seen having returned to first team training, however.And asked about Acheampong ahead of tomorrow’s match, Maresca confirmed that a contract agreement is close.The Italian, 44, said: “He’s in the squad and is probably going to play from the start.”With Josh, it’s quite clear, we all love Josh, the club love Josh and I love Josh.Most read in Europa LeagueBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERS”We are trying to find an agreement with the player. It’s close, we are almost there.”Chelsea will embark on a 7,000-mile round trip to face Astana, with stars such as Cole Palmer and Noni Madueke among those that will be left at home.How Chelsea embarrassed Spurs with Enzo Fernandez leading genius in-game tactical shake-upOn their travel arrangements, Maresca added this morning: “We have a session now, then we fly there, eight hours.”We arrive, have dinner, bed. Fortunately they are five hours ahead of us. We are going to be there for 24 hours.”Friday morning, we are going to arrive around 6am in London.”Following Chelsea’s arduous trip, their West London derby against Brentford this weekend has been pushed back to an unusual kick-off time.The match will get underway at 7pm this Sunday, and it’s likely that Maresca could make as many as 11 changes from the side that will face Astana tomorrow.Acheampong has made one brief first team cameo under MarescaCredit: Getty More

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      EFL stadium set to be invaded by Greek ultras armed with flares… weeks after shocking vandalism following Euro clash

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      FLARE-CARRYING ultras from Greek giants Panathinaikos are about to invade Shrewsbury.At least 900 of the Athens giants’ fans look set to descend on the Shropshire town to watch their club take on Welsh Premier League minnows The New Saints at The Croud Meadow.Shrewsbury’s Croud Meadow is set to host TNS vs PanathinaikosCredit: GettyPanathinaikos ultras are known for creating a lively atmosphereCredit: AFPCroud Meadow was vandalised by Djurgårdens last time outCredit: Shrewsbury Town FCThe Greek side’s Gate 13 ultras are famous for the noise, passion and atmosphere they create home and away.TNS are playing their Conference League games at the home of the League One club because their own Park Hall Ground in Oswestry does not meet Uefa regulations.And 19 miles along the A5, the locals are gearing up for tonight’s showdown in the hope that Craig Harrison’s players will smash some plates in their history-making campaign.As SunSport paid a visit, the only proper Greek restaurant in Shrewsbury — Exo Poli, just over a mile away from the ground — promises “a little bit of Crete” for customers heading to the match.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLCloser still is the Charles Darwin pub, named after the “theory of evolution” naturalist who was born in the town.Manager Katy Hutchings coped with plenty of visiting supporters after 1,800 Swedes descended on Shrewsbury for last month’s visit of Djurgarden.Those fans left The Croud Meadow in a mess — despite the visitors winning 1-0 — with graffiti sprayed on three sides of the ground and damage in Smithy’s Bar while two dozen seats were ripped out.But in the Charles Darwin there were no problems. Hutchings said: “We had some bouncers on the doors but we didn’t need them.Most read in Football“And I’m pretty good at throwing customers out myself anyway!“We’re well-used to visiting fans coming in here for Shrewsbury’s games and the Swedish lads were fine.“These games are great for the local economy — and in this town we’re proud of the way we always welcome visitors.”At the Oxon Priory pub close to the Roman Road, general manager Pam Hayward said: “The more the merrier. We’ll have extra staff in.“And we look forward to entertaining as many Greeks as want to join us before the game. Everybody around here is hoping The New Saints stay in the competition.”The Croud Meadow safety officer Lawrence Ellerby added: “There was talk on social media that there might be as many as 4,000 Panathinaikos fans coming. What we know is about 900 visitor tickets have been sold, with plenty of Greek ex–pats here buying them.“Damage done by Djurgarden fans was disappointing but we know how to cope with big numbers at this club.“We’ve had the likes of Liverpool and West Ham and never had any big problems.“We’re looking forward to the Panathinaikos game and their fans and good luck to TNS, we’re happy to give them a temporary home.”The campaign is not just a money-spinner for the town but also for 16-time domestic champs TNS — the first-ever Welsh League club to qualify for a European competition proper — as they made £4.1million in reaching the league stage.Goals from Rory Holden and Declan McManus gave them a 2-0 victory over Astana from Kazakhstan at The Croud Meadow to register another first by a Welsh outfit in a major European competition and a £330,000 win bonus.There was the TNS trip of a lifetime to Florence and a 2–0 loss to Fiorentina plus the 2-1 Dublin defeat to Shamrock Rovers.But a win over 20-time Greek title winners Panathinaikos would open the way to another Welsh League first — qualification for a European knockout stage.Last up is a visit to Celje in Slovenia and TNS are just one point off the Conference League’s play-off zone.READ MORE SUN STORIESBoss Harrison said: “Panathinaikos is huge for this club but if we could even come away from our last two games with four points to reach a total of seven we could have a chance of going through.“We’ve lost games but we haven’t conceded more than two in any — goal difference could be the deciding factor, if we can get seven points or more!” More

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      Chelsea add 11 academy stars to Conference League squad with kids set to face -21C temperatures and 7,000-mile trip

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      CHELSEA could take 11 academy stars on the 7,000-mile round trip to Kazakhstan as they prepare to face Astana in temperatures of -21C.The Blues have enjoyed a perfect run in the Conference League after winning all four of their fixtures to sit in first place in the League Phase.Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca may have up to 11 youngsters at AstanaCredit: GettyChelsea youngster Shumaira Mheuka and Co face subzero temperatures at AstanaCredit: GettyRichard Olise – the brother of Bayern Munich star Michael – is on Chelsea’s listCredit: GettyChelsea youngster Tyrique George will make the 7,000-mile trip to KazakhstanCredit: AlamyAnd the West Londoners have done so without some big names such as Romeo Lavia, Wesley Fofana and star man Cole Palmer, who were left out in manager Enzo Maresca’s bid to manage a busy fixtures list.Palmer and Co can still play in the competition during the knockout stages, but Maresca wishes to rest players who will also have to compete in the summer’s controversial Club World Cup.Cesare Casadei was also sent off with two yellow cards at Heidenheim two weeks ago, which has led to fewer senior choices.The Italian tactician has placed faith in youth during the European campaign and will do the same against Astana, in a match that kicks off at 3.30pm UK time.Read More on ChelseaThere is no official confirmation as to how many academy players will be flying, but 11 of them are currently listed in Chelsea’s updated squad.Those are Harrison Murray-Campbell, Kaiden Wilson, Tyrique George, Kiano Dyer, Harrison McMahon, Samuel Rak-Sakyi, Ato Ampah, Max Merrick, Josh Acheampong, Shumaira Mheuka and Richard Olise.One of the names may sound familiar as Olise is the brother of ex-Crystal Palace star Michael Olise, who now plays for Bayern Munich.Astana could mark senior debuts for Murray-Campbell, Wilson, Dyer, Ampah, Mheuka, Olise and Merrick.Most read in FootballAnd fans will be hoping the don’t freeze in the spotlight as temperatures in Astana are expected to drop to -21C on Thursday when the two teams face off at the Pavlodar Central Stadium.When Chelsea started in the competition, only five were named in the squad – Acheampong, Dyer, George, McMahon and Merrick.Jadon Sancho throws corner flag during Chelsea’s celebration at Tottenham The Premier League giants are allowed to add an unlimited number of youngsters from their esteemed Cobham academy to their squad’s B list whenever they wish.Chelsea ratings vs TottenhamCHELSEA came from two goals behind to beat Spurs 4-3 in a chaotic game at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium,Here’s how the Blues players rated…Robert Sanchez – 4The home fans were on to him for the entirety of the first half after he lumped the ball out of play early on.Not an awful lot he could’ve done about the goals, and he did recover well in the second half.Moises Caicedo – 6Chelsea’s best defender on the day, he put in some strong challenges inverting into midfield and put in a solid performance once again.Fortunate to escape a card for a late challenge on Pape Matar Sarr, before a brilliant second half.Benoit Badiashile – 4Looked uncomfortable playing as a left-footed centre-back on the right-hand side.Often didn’t help Robert Sanchez by playing him into trouble, and looked awkward when trying to progress from the back.Levi Colwill – 6Allowed Solanke to get in front of him and finish brilliantly at the near post for the opening goal.Didn’t have an awful lot to do in the second half, which was perhaps a good sign, as the whole defence was improved.Marc Cucurella – 4Slipped at the vital moment to practically set Spurs through and open the scoring within five minutes, before slipping AGAIN which saw Kulusevski double the lead.Recovered really well after swapping his ice skates for football boots, nabbing the assist for Sancho’s goal and giving a solid showing for the whole second half.That said, he has to be marked down for the two goals.Romeo Lavia – 8Energetic, strong and smooth on the turn in midfield, with some brilliant line-breaking passes too.Much the same as Caicedo, he is becoming a dependable, impressive body in the Chelsea midfield.Came off at half-time for Malo Gusto, which must have been a tactical switch.Enzo Fernandez (c) – 9Didn’t misplace a single one of his 28 passes in the first half, the same as Lavia – before adding a stunning, game-winning, left-footed volley to his myriad of impressive actions.His best game in a Chelsea shirt came in one of their biggest matches of the season, as he continues his remarkable run of goal contributions.Pedro Neto – 7A threat on the right wing in the first half for Chelsea, he pressed well and came close to scoring Palmer’s deflected effort.A constant danger, he was creative but slightly lacked in end product if you’re being critical.Cole Palmer – 9Mis-kicked a chance in the first twenty minutes you would usually bet your house on him scoring, before coming close again with a shot from range moments later.Calmly dispatched his equalising penalty into the bottom corner, before setting up Enzo Fernandez to put his side in the lead.Added the cherry on the Chelsea cake with an ice-cold panenka from the penalty spot.Jadon Sancho – 8Excellent finish to pull one back for the Blues and spark hope among supporters.Generally sharp in build-up, and tricky feet as always, with a great slide-rule pass to see Caicedo win the penalty for Chelsea’s equaliser.Nicolas Jackson – 6Looked a threat going forward for Chelsea in spells, but failed to get himself on the scoresheet on this occasion.Seemed troubled as he departed the pitch for the oncoming Christopher Nkunku.SUBS…Malo Gusto (Romeo Lavia, HT) – 5Was more direct and definitely an improvement on Malacia, albeit on the opposite flank.However, still wasn’t able to be the difference which Ruben Amorim would’ve been looking for in this one.Christopher Nkunku (Nicolas Jackson, 76)Got in some good positions and pressed well, remaining an outlet for the Chelsea attack when they countered.Ultimately not enough time to have the impact he would’ve liked.Noni Madueke (Pedro Neto, 86)Not enough time to impact the game in any way.Renato Veiga (Marc Cucurella, 90)Not enough time to give a solid review, hardly touched the ball.Joao Felix (Cole Palmer, 90)Came on with seven minutes to go, in which Chelsea were defending for the most part. 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      Awkward moment new BBC MOTD favourite upsets David Moyes with comment live on TV as he gives deadpan response

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      MARK CHAPMAN put his foot in his mouth in an awkward exchange with David Moyes on Match of the Day 2.Chapman, 51, hilariously made an accidental jibe at David Moyes’ European success with West Ham.Mark Chapman talked himself into an awkward situation on Match of the Day 2 when discussing the Uefa Conference LeagueCredit: BBCDavid Moyes questioned Chapman for suggesting the Conference League isn’t up to scratchCredit: BBCChapman and Alan Shearer burst out laughing at the deadpan responseCredit: BBCChapman apologised to Moyes for the inadvertent jibeCredit: BBCMoyes joined Chapman and Alan Shearer on the BBC highlights show as a pundit to talk through the weekend’s action.And when discussing Chelsea’s 3-0 win over Aston Villa, Chapman delved into the Blues’ ability to rotate their squad due to their participation in the Uefa Conference League instead of the Champions League or Europa League.Seemingly hinting that the Conference League’s subpar opposition allows Chelsea to rotate heavily in Europe, Chapman said: “If you look at the changes that he [Enzo Maresca] can make in Europe.”And look they’re in the Conference League so they can…”READ MORE IN FOOTBALLBefore the experienced broadcaster could even finish his sentence he was hilariously interrupted by Moyes who asked: “What’s up with the Conference League?”The quick-witted interjection had both Chapman and Shearer in fits of laughter with Moyes hinting at his spectacular success in the Conference League with West Ham.Chapman jokingly said: “That was a bit awkward!”.Moyes led West Ham to Conference League success in 2023, beating Fiorentina in the final in Prague and becoming the first English team to lift the relatively new trophy.Most read in FootballDavid Moyes led West Ham to Conference League glory in 2023Credit: Richard Pelham / The SunFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSIt was the first major trophy won by West Ham in 43 years and the crowing jewel of Moyes’ long and illustrious career as a manager.Fans enjoyed Moyes’ tongue-in-cheek reaction to Chapman’s awkward moment.Watch Alan Shearer’s cheeky pitch to be new Match of the Day host in first show since Gary Lineker exit confirmedOn social media, one fan wrote: “Great moment!”While another added: “The laugh from Moyes and deadpan expression. Brilliant.”Chapman is currently favourite to replace Gary Lineker as host of Match of the Day at the end of the season.Lineker is set to step down from his role as the highlight show’s host after over 25 years in the hotseat.And Chapman, who has hosted MOTD2 since 2013, is strong favourite to be handed the role by the BBC.However, The Sun exclusively revealed last month that the Beeb are hoping to share the role between two presenters – an idea that Chapman isn’t keen on.In fact, Chapman has flatly refused a Match of the Day job share.Mark Chapman is favourite to be named as the new host of Match of the DayCredit: GettyUltimate sports presenters rich listTV sports presenters make a mint.The biggest and best are signed up on yearly deals with the likes of the BBC, ITV and Sky for your viewing pleasure.Laura Woods is dominating the media landscape at the moment, leading TNT Sports’ coverage and ITV’s.Alex Scott and Jermaine Jenas are two of the fresher faces for the BBC’s sporting output.Then, it’s the old guard of Gary Lineker and Mark Chapman who also command hefty fees for their Match of the Day programmes.SunSport has taken a look at how those big names rank and compiled a list of the top 10 highest earning stars that grace our TV screens.With number one worth a whopping £29.4million more than number 10!Read the story and see the full list here. More

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      EFL stadium left vandalised as shocking pictures emerge after ground hosted European clash

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      AN EFL stadium was left vandalised after hosting a European clash on Thursday.The Croud Meadow has been the home of League One outfit Shrewsbury Town since 2007.Shrewsbury Town’s stadium was vandalised after playing host to TNS’s Europa League Conference clashCredit: GettyFans from Swedish side Djurgarden covered their stand in graffiti while ripping up seatsCredit: Shrewsbury Town FCWelsh side The New Saints played at Shrewsbury’s ground as their own does not meet Uefa regulationsCredit: Shrewsbury Town FCSeating 9,875 fans at a time, it has also become a temporary base for Welsh side TNS (The New Saints).The Cymru Premier champs usually play at their Park Hall stadium in Oswestry.But it does not meet Uefa regulations, forcing them to host their Europa Conference League home fixtures at Croud Meadow.TNS’ latest continental clash saw them host Swedish side Djurgarden on Thursday.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLNearly 2,000 Scandinavian supporters turned up for the match, which their side won 1-0.However, Shrewsbury Town have since revealed that travelling fans vandalised Croud Meadow in disgraceful scenes.“Substantial damage” was caused to various parts of the ground, with over two dozen seats ripped out from the West Stand.Lighting, tables and chairs were also vandalised in both Smithy’s Bar and the Fanzone.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSAnd various bits of graffiti also covered the three areas.Shrewsbury say they are now talking with Djurgarden to “repair the damage.”If I was a painter or a builder I might not be here and now I’m back in EFL after open heart surgery saved my life But it is unlikely to be sorted in time for Wednesday’s League One clash against Blackpool.A statement read: “Shrewsbury Town are angry and saddened to report the Croud Meadow has been left vandalised by Djurgarden supporters.“As a club, we took the decision to host TNS and their Europa Conference League matches in our home to boost tourism in the county and bring European football to Shropshire.“However, we have been left dismayed by supporters of Djurgarden after they caused widespread damage last night.“More than two dozen seats have been ripped out of the West Stand. There has also been substantial damage to lighting, tables and chairs in Smithy’s Bar and in the FanZone.“Alongside destroying property, Djurgarden fans also took it on themselves to cover all three areas in graffiti.READ MORE SUN STORIES“We have spoken to Djurgarden as we continue to assess the damage and are working with them to repair the damage – however this work may not be done in time for our next fixture against Blackpool on Wednesday“As a club we would like to stress this vandalism is nothing to do with TNS – with the damage clearly caused by Djurgarden supporters.” More

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      Heidenheim 0 Chelsea 2: Nkunku and Mudryk both score but Casadei is sent off with second last kick of game

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      CHELSEA’S second string maintained their 100 per cent record in the third tier of European competition – but not without a number of scares.Top scorer Christopher Nkunku claimed his seventh goal in the Europa Conference League and on another night might have had a hat-trick.Christopher Nkunku scored a close-range opener for ChelseaCredit: RexIt is the Frenchman’s 11th goal of the season in all competitionsCredit: ReutersMykhailo Mudryk doubled Chelsea’s lead with a brilliant finishCredit: GettyIt is the Ukrainian’s third Europa Conference League goal of the campaignCredit: RexHeidenheim had the share of chances despite having less of the ballBut Heidenheim, who also went into the game with three wins from three, caused plenty of problems for the Blues.Blues goalkeeper Filip Jorgensen made a string of saves, the best of them after Nkunku’s goal and before Mykhailo Mudryk sealed victory with less than five minutes to go.And apart from Jadon Sancho, none of the other outfield players in the cream-coloured kit made much of a case to rise into the first 11 for Sunday’s clash with Aston Villa.As usual Enzo Maresca made wholesale changes from his first 11, with only Benoit Badiashile keeping his place from the win at Leicester.READ MORE ON CHELSEABut Chelsea learned within a minute that it would not be another Thursday night stroll.Badiashile was booked for fouling Heidenheim winger Leonardo Scienza and Mikkel Kaufmann almost touched in the resulting free kick.It was an entertaining, end-to-end game in a festive atmosphere.Marc Guiu, twice, and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall had shots saved, while Jorgensen denied Kaufmann, Scienza and Mathias Honsak.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSMykhailo Mudryk wanted a penalty for a challenge on him but the referee waved it away even after going to the monitorCredit: GettyEnzo Maresca’s men remain the only side to have a 100 per cent record in the Europa Conference LeagueCredit: GettyAfter Nkunku spooned a finish over the bar, Chelsea were awarded a penalty when Mykhailo Mudryk went flying over a challenge by home captain Patrick Mainka.But Dutch referee Serdar Gozubuyuk went back on his decision after being summoned to the VAR monitor.Inside Frank Lampard’s superstitious routine as new Coventry boss’ success could depend on Chelsea legend’s DOGNkunku drew another save from home ‘keeper Kevin Muller, Tosin Adarabioyo shot just wide and the half somehow ended 0-0.Heidenheim had another chance before Nkunku broke the deadlock.Sancho’s cross sat up nicely and the France international found a fine finish.The home side, with their supporters keeping up constant noise behind the goal they were attacking, kept going and Scienza curled a shot just wide.Chelsea ratings vs HeidenheimChelsea remained at the top of the table with a hard-fought 2-0 win over Heidenheim.Christopher Nkunku and Mykhailo Mudryk got on the scoresheet as the Bundesliga side gave them their toughest test so far in the Conference League.The Blues were not at their best in the opening 45 minutes but were far better after a half-time team talk from Enzo Maresca.Click here to see how SunSport’s Alex Smith rated the Chelsea performances.Wanner should have equalised, but Jorgensen made a fine save and then another from Scienza’s follow-up.Substitute Joao Felix sent Nkunku through on the break but Muller kept his team in it with another save.Home sub Maximilian Breunig had the ball in the net but it was ruled out for offside and Muller denied Dewsbury-Hall at the other end.READ MORE SUN STORIESMudryk finally killed the game with an emphatic shot into the top corner after more good work by Sancho.Cesare Casadei was sent off for a second yellow card deep into stoppage time, which reflected a tough but ultimately successful evening for the Blues. More

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      Heidenheim 0-2 Chelsea LIVE RESULT: Nkunku and Mudryk fire Blues to fourth straight win in Conference League – updates

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      CHELSEA have beaten Heidenheim 2-0 to continue their perfect record in the Conference League.Early in the second half, Christopher Nkunku broke the deadlock with a superb finish.On 86 minutes, Mykhailo Mudryk slammed one right in the top right corner to make it 2-0 and secure a fourth straight win for Chelsea in Europe.The Blues’ win was clouded by Cesare Casadei receiving a red card for a second yellow with seconds remaining.Match result: Heidenheim 0-2 ChelseaHeidenheim starting team: Muller, Siersleben, Mainka, Scienza, Wanner, Honsak, Traore, Kaufmann, Theuerkauf, Maloney, DorschChelsea starting team: Jorgensen, Disasi, Tosin, Badiashile, Veiga, Casadei, Dewsbury-Hall, Sancho, Nkunku, Mudryk, GuiuBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSFollow ALL the action from the Voith-Arena with our live blog below…ReportChelsea’s second string maintained their 100 per cent record in the third tier of European competition – but not without a number of scares.Top scorer Christopher Nkunku claimed his seventh goal in the Europa Conference League and on another night might have had a hat-trick.But Heidenheim, who also went into the game with three wins from three, caused plenty of problems for the Blues.Blues goalkeeper Filip Jorgensen made a string of saves, the best of them after Nkunku’s goal and before Mykhailo Mudryk sealed victory with less than five minutes to go.Copy linkCopiedFull time statsThe numbers behind the 90 minutes.Chelsea well in control of the ball but Heidenheim did have their chances – actually registering more efforts on target than Chelsea.The Blues with over double the completed passes.Copy linkCopiedFull time from SunSport’s Dan King in GermanyAfter the flood of goals that overwhelmed Noah, a far more challenging night for Chelsea in the depths of southern Germany. Heidenheim will surely climb higher than the 15th place they currently occupy in the Bundesliga. And Cesare Casadei will probably not be heartbroken by his late red card because it means he misses the trip to freezing Kazahkstan next month.
      Copy linkCopiedFull time in HeidenheimHeidenheim were perhaps a touch unfortunate not to get on the scoresheet tonight.But a second string Chelsea side proved just too strong in the second half.Two assists on the night for Jadon Sancho who was heavily involved in both goals.Christopher Nkunku and Mykhailo Mudryk the scorers and a decent away win in Europe.Copy linkCopiedFT! Chelsea win 2-0 at Heidenheim to guarantee European football after Christmas!Copy linkCopiedRED CARDCesare Casadei is shown a second yellow card with a few seconds to go.The youngster looks absolutely devastated with that as he trudges off. It takes the shine off what was a decent night for him too.Copy linkCopied90+4 – Heidenheim 0-2 ChelseaChelsea win a corner and look quite happy to run the clock down as Joao Felix takes his time making it across.Copy linkCopiedFive minutes added onChelsea should have enough to see this one out from here.Smoke fills the air as yet more pyro is let off.Copy linkCopied90+1 – Heidenheim 0-2 ChelseaTwo late Chelsea changes:OFF: Sancho & Dewsbury-HallON: George & Rak-SakyiCopy linkCopiedGOOOO – NO!Nearly a grandstand finish.Max Breunig finds the net for the home side once again.Max Breunig is offside when doing so once again.Copy linkCopiedGOAL DETAILStunning finish from Mudryk and it’s game over in Germany.Again, Sancho is the architect. He works a really clever one-two with Dewsbury-Hall who has been bright all night.The pair work it well and Sancho darts into the box before laying it off to Mudryk on the edge of the box who smashes it into the top corner with a first time finish.Copy linkCopiedGame over now!Copy linkCopied73 – Heidenheim 0-1 ChelseaJorgensen and Veiga both booked in the space of 90 seconds.Veiga for a foul on halfway, Jorgensen for time-wasting.That shows where this game is at the minute.Copy linkCopiedGOOO – NO!The home fans just getting excited for a few seconds there when Max Breunig found the net with a header.But he’s roughly a mile offside and it’s quickly ruled out.Chelsea living dangerously here.Copy linkCopied73 – Heidenheim 0-1 ChelseaIt is game over – for Nkunku.He was hurt from that challenge and missed chance and signaled to the bench straight away.He makes his way to the sidelines but he’s going to be replaced. Hopefully nothing too serious.OFF: NkunkuON: ChukwuemekaCopy linkCopied73 – Heidenheim 0-1 ChelseaShould be game over!From the edge of their own box, Chelsea play three slick passes which completely cut open the German side and Nkunku is inside his own half but is clean through.His first touch is good as he bears down on goal. The defender gets back to put him off with a slight nudge in the back but he gets his shot away and Muller keeps it out.Copy linkCopied69 – Heidenheim 0-1 ChelseaHeidenheim just haven’t managed to get Paul Wanner on the ball enough tonight.But he’s involved here, capitalising on more strange Chelsea defending to get a strike on goal which Jorgensen saves tremendously well.The home side on top at the minute chasing a famous equaliser.Copy linkCopiedView from SunSport’s Dan King in GermanyHeidenheim aren’t giving up, nor are their fans. Those flares just keep on coming in the home end, no matter how many times they are politely told it’s not allowed. Joao Felix has replaced Marc Guiu, Christopher Nkunku has gone up top and the game is in the balance. Fabulous double save by Filip Jorgensen keeps Chelsea ahead.Copy linkCopied62 – Heidenheim 0-1 ChelseaNearly a stunning equaliser from Scienza – but what on earth were Chelsea doing at the back there.From a goal kick, Badiashile gives it to Jorgensen when the keeper’s not looking. So he has to scramble to try and clear it but it’s charged down.The ball looks to be headed for a Chelsea throw and Disasi kids on he’s going to get it but tries to be clever to let it run out.He’s then made to look a right mug when Kaufmann bursts his lungs to keep it in on the slide. It’s knocked to Scienza who has a go from 25 yards on the angle but dips and curls agonisingly wide.Copy linkCopiedSome statTen goals in his last 11 European games for Nkunku.Copy linkCopied56 – Heidenheim 0-1 ChelseaGood work from Sancho once again.He beats his man with good footwork before a low cross into Guiu but good defending at the back sees the home side get bodies in the way to scramble it to safety.Copy linkCopiedToo goodChristopher Nkunku has to play more.In truth, his Chelsea career would probably be much different had he not been injured early into his Stamford Bridge life.He’s wasted as just a European player in this competition.Copy linkCopiedGOAL DETAILSmashing wee goal or Chelsea and a customary European goal from Christopher Nkunku.Dewsbury-Hall feeds Sancho down the right side of the area.His pick-out for the late run of Nkunku looks to be a difficult one for the forward.But on the stretch, Nkunku brings it down with his left foot and into his path superbly before finishing coolly from close range into the top corner with his right foot.Terrific goal.Copy linkCopiedHe’s done it again!Copy linkCopied49 – Heidenheim 0-0 Chelsea’Come on Chelsea, come on Chelsea’ – the chant from the Chelsea supporters as the Blues enjoy a couple of minutes of good possession.Dewsbury-Hall almost slips a great through-ball for Guiu to be sent clean through but it’s a last-ditch interception from Scienza which cuts it out.Copy linkCopied More