Europa Conference League

Subterms

    More stories

    • 213 Shares75 Views

      in Soccer

      Chelsea opponents Djurgarden in chaos as chairman QUITS over racism scandal 48 hours before Conference League clash

      by

      CHELSEA’S Conference League clash with Djurgardens has been overshadowed by the resignation of the Swedish club’s chairman in a racism scandal.Lars-Erik Sjoberg is at the centre of an investigation by Swedish newspaper Expressen which claims he shared xenophobic material on social media.Djurgardens’ chairman has quit just the day before their showdown with ChelseaCredit: GettySjoberg has stepped down as chairmanCredit: DjurgardenHe has been in charge for more than a decade and has left on the eve of the biggest game in his club’s history as they prepare to take on the two-time European Champions.Sjoberg insists he is not the author of the alleged right-wing views.He said: “When I speak out for Djurgården Football, I do so in Djurgården’s channels, or directly with journalists who have approached me for the role of representative of Djurgården Football.”I publish very little on social media myself, and when I do, it is usually of a family nature.READ MORE ON CHELSEA”However, I follow many accounts on different social media – from different political sides, from different religious views, and from different positions in society. “I share/like some of what I see in my feed, but I almost never write anything of my own.”Djurgarden face Chelsea in the first leg of their Conference League semi-final tomorrow with the return at Stamford Bridge next Thursday.The game has already been marked by some of the home players labelling their own artificial pitch ‘s****y’.Most read in FootballBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKThursday’s clash is Chelsea’s first European semi-final since 2021. Midfielder Moises Caicedo said: “We know that every game is tough.Enzo Maresca is concerned with Chelsea’s missed ‘easy chances’ after limping into the Conference League semi-final “So we will head into it with the mentality that the opposition will be very tough, but with the desire we have of wanting to win the game.”We will do everything in this game, everything. “We know that they will be very tough opposition, especially at their ground. “So, we have to do things well, play our game, and I’m sure we’ll be able to bring home a win.”Chelsea player ratings vs EvertonBy Lloyd CanfieldENZO MARESCA watched on from the stands as Chelsea stole a 1-0 win at home to Everton. The game was shocked into life after 26 minutes when good pressure from the home side saw Nicolas Jackson take the ball on the turn and rifle it into the back of Jordan Pickford’s net, his first goal since returning from injury. It was by no means easy after they grabbed the opener though, as the Blues dominated possession but failed to add more goals to their tally.So who was to blame for another lethargic display? Did Cole Palmer finally show signs of improvement?Check out our Chelsea player ratings.Djurgården have made a slow start to the new Allsvenskan season. After five consecutive top-four finishes, the club are currently 11th with 7 points from a possible 15.The Swedish side saw off Rapid Vienna in the quarterfinals and Cyprus’ Pafos in the round of 16. More

    • 275 Shares91 Views

      in Soccer

      ‘Better late than never’ – Chelsea FINALLY get shirt sponsor with new kit to be worn for last four Premier League games

      by

      CHELSEA have finally found a new shirt sponsor… which will be worn for the last few matches of the season.The Blues have spent the entirety of the campaign without a logo on the front of their kit.Chelsea have spent almost the entirety of the season without a shirt sponsorBut Chelsea have finally announced their new sponsor, which will be worn until the end of the seasonBut the West Londoners announced a new, long-term global partnership with DAMAC Properties, which will feature on the players’ jerseys for the rest of the season.The Dubai-headquartered luxury real estate company has also become the club’s official property development partner.Chelsea will first showcase their new shirts on Thursday in the Conference League during the semi-final first leg against Djurgarden in Sweden.Fans are relieved that the club have finally found a sponsor, despite leaving it very late.Read More on ChelseaOne fan tweeted: “Better late than never.”Another commented: “Finally, now let’s finish the season strong.”A third wrote: “Bravo.”This one said: “Finally a front kit sponsor.”Most read in FootballJoin SUN CLUB for the Chelsea Files every Tuesday plusin-depth coverage and exclusives from Stamford BridgeAnd that one exclaimed: “WOWZERS!”Last season, the Blues played the first seven matches of the season in a plain kit without a sponsor.Infinite Athlete then stepped in on September 30 and were the main sponsor for the rest of the season – reportedly paying almost £40million for the privilege.But the American sports tech firm moved to become sleeve sponsor this season.Chelsea’s last long-term front-of-shirt sponsor was Three UK, who had signed a three-year deal worth £40m annually.Cole Palmer spotted running away from Stamford Bridge as baffled Chelsea fans ask ‘where is he going’The mobile network cut ties in the wake of the Russian invasion of Ukraine – which also saw Roman Abramovich also forced to sell the club to Todd Boehly, Behdad Egbali and Clearlake Capital.Chelsea are now chasing the Conference League trophy, which is the only piece of silverware they can win in Enzo Maresca’s debut season as manager.The London giants are also pushing for a top-five finish ahead of the last four Premier League fixtures. More

    • 213 Shares65 Views

      in Soccer

      Chelsea files: Blues caught in furious ‘s***ty pitch’ row as Maresca’s seven-goalkeeper dilemma sees him target Trafford

      by

      CHELSEA head to Sweden this week and straight into a bizarre ‘s****y’ pitch battle involving European opponents Djurgarden.Their hosts for the Conference League semi-final first leg are furious with the state of their OWN surface as they prepare for their biggest game in years. Chelsea take on Swedish side Djurgardens in the Conference League semi-finalCredit: EPADjurgardens striker August Priske admitted their pitch is ‘s****y’Credit: GettyThe pitch is an artificial one and the Djurgardens players and coaches are not happy with it. Usually it is the visiting opposition that kick up a fuss when they arrive and find it uncomfortable on an alien surface. Djurgardens overcame Austrians Rapid Vienna in the previous round but they lost the home leg and then came back in the away game to secure a dream date with Chelsea on Thursday. Striker August Priske said: “I don’t want to blame the pitch of course, but it’s a s****y pitch.”Djurgardens play at the multi-use 3Arena in Stockholm and share the multi-use stadium with rivals Hammerby.The Rolling Stones, Harry Styles and Celine Dion have all played there.Djurgardens’ coach Jani Honkavaara says: “Our training pitch is so different to the one at the stadium, it’s like night and day. The stadium pitches feel different from day to day.“It’s really tough for both us and our opponents. We get nothing extra from it.“The pitch is horrible. I have thought of letting us train more on the stadium pitch to get used to it.”Modern pitches often contain part man-made materials combined with grass. But there are fears that certain artificial surfaces can raise the risk of injuries to players.The stadium is owned by the authorities in the Swedish capital and it’s believed cost issues prevent the surface being changed.Cole Palmer spotted running away from Stamford Bridge as baffled Chelsea fans ask ‘where is he going’Win a trip to the UEFA Conference League Final in Wroclaw with HankookChelsea are fifth in the Premier League as they prepare for Thursday’s game and boss Enzo Maresca needs everyone fit for the run to have their best shot at qualifying for next season’s Champions League.Winger Tokmak Nguen said: “The ball just slides away from your foot all the time. In deciding situations when you have decided what to do suddenly the ball has moved for no reason. We have told the club that something has to be done.”Better late than neverLATE KICK-OFFS have always been part of football – but never like this.Chelsea’s Conference League clash with Djurgardens is the first meeting between the two sides and has finally arrived 70 years late.In 1955 The Blues were celebrating winning the old First Division and as such were invited to compete in the newly formed European Champions’ Clubs Cup.They were drawn against Djurgardens and then Chelsea manager Ted Drake was hugely interested.However, in order to play, competing teams needed the permission of their respective national associations and at the time, Football League assistant secretary Alan Hardaker allegedly asked Chelsea to ‘reconsider’ because of the crowded domestic season.How times have changed – European football now rules the roost and the domestic calendar is taking a battering to make way for it.Chelsea are playing in the semi-finals of a competition in only its fourth year of existence as Uefa’s third-tier competition behind the 36-team Champions League and Europa League.KEEPING UP APPEARANCESCHELSEA’S goalkeeper dilemma shows no sign of slowing.The Blues have asked about Burnley keeper James Trafford, who is expected to leave Turf Moor this summer – despite their promotion back to the Premier League.Newcastle look likely to beat the west Londoners to his signing, having failed in a move for the England Under-21 international last summer.But Chelsea have asked the question in the hope they may be able to pull something off.Maresca is in a bind over what to do between the posts, with EIGHT stoppers on the club’s books.Borussia Dortmund keeper Gregor Kobel is also being eyed.Swiss star Kobel, 27, has established himself as first choice over his four years since arriving from Stuttgart in a £13m move.But Kobel, who has just one year left on his Dortmund contract, is ready for a change of scenery.Dortmund are steeling themselves for his departure, having already signed Diant Ramaj, currently on loan at Copenhagen from Ajax, on a four-year deal that starts this summer.That indicates Dortmund, who took midfielder Carney Chukwuemeka on loan from Chelsea in January, will be willing to do a £15m-plus deal.Robert Sanchez has spent most of this season as first choice at the Bridge and pulled off two vital stops in the weekend win over Everton.The former Brighton man has still to convince the Blues faithful, who are equally uncertain about Filip Jorgensen, who has made six Prem starts.Former Spain keeper Kepa is due to return from his loan spell at Bournemouth, Marcus Bettinelli has been the unused third choice this term.Another loanee due back is Djordje Petrovic, who has impressed at Strasbourg, while the Blues also have Lucas Bergstrom and Eddie Beach and have signed Genk teenager Mike Penders for next season.Chelsea want to sign Burnley goalkeeper James TraffordRobert Sanchez is still yet to win over the Blues faithfulTHE U-turn over Trevoh Chalobah has been completed – without even a flush of embarrassment.Central defender Chalobah was told he was surplus to requirements in August after being put in the Blues’ “bomb squad”.The home-grown 25-year-old had his preferred No 14 shirt stripped and handed to Portuguese flop Joao Felix before he was snapped up on loan by Crystal Palace.An injury crisis at the Bridge saw Maresca exercise a break clause in the deal to bring the defender back to SW6 in January, handing him the No 23 shirt.But Chalobah has now made himself first choice alongside Levi Colwill, despite the return to fitness of Benoit Badiashile.Maresca said: “Since Trev came back to us in January he’s done very, very well.“He’s playing games and helping us, defending when he needs to defend and also building from the back when we need him.“We’re very happy with Trev. Honestly, he hasn’t played a bigger role than I expected.“I knew he could help us. We never had any doubts about that.”Trevoh Chalobah has impressed Enzo Maresca since returning from loanCredit: GettyTROPHY HUNTERChelsea face the toughest run-in of the top five contenders, with clashes against champions Liverpool, Newcastle, Manchester United and Nottingham Forest.Maresca, whose decision to field a strong side for the home second leg of the Conference League quarter-final with Legia Warsaw backfired with a dreadful display in the 2-1 defeat, put Reece James on the bench against Everton.But some feel the Blues boss, aware of Mauricio Pochettino’s fate last summer, may value winning a trophy over qualifying for Europe’s main competition to secure his own managerial reputation.That could see him prioritising the two semi-final games against Djurgarden and then the potential final against Fiorentina or Real Betis in Wroclaw three days after the Prem finale.Moving the goalpostsChelsea fans may have to steel themselves for a FIVE-YEAR absence from Stamford Bridge if the club’s alternative stadium options fall through.Their neighbours in nearby Twickenham are on the front foot trying to lure the Premier League club to the newly renamed Allianz Stadium HQ of England’s rugby union team.RFU boss Bill Sweeney declared: “If Chelsea came, it would be a big financial number.”The 82,000 capacity is almost double that of Stamford Bridge currently and geographically is a much better fit than Wembley.The national stadium in North West London is regarded as an atmospheric graveyard for club games – as Tottenham found to their cost when they occupied the place for almost three years on a part-time and permanent basis while their new ground was built.There has been no update on the potential move to Earls Court with local Hammersmith and Fulham Council chiefs due to rule soon on a stadium-free mixed use plan by developers that could effectively determine the site’s future.If so, then a rebuild of Chelsea’s home since 1905 – which would likely be the fans’ preferred choice – might be left as the only option to expand the current 44,000 capacity.But complications caused by the Tube line running beside the ground and the nearby Brompton Cemetery mean club insiders fear a stand-by-stand rebuild is unlikely to be feasible.That would leave the Blues looking for a short-term let for between four and five seasons while the club’s new home was constructed.Twickenham’s restrictive Covenant agreement on staging events suggests the home of English rugby would be a non-runner even though the RFU seem interested in an arrangement, while Craven Cottage, Loftus Road and Brentford’s Gtech Community Stadium would all be too small.That appears to leave Wembley as the best, if probably unpopular option, as the gate attendances would help make up a financial shortfall from the limits on other stadium income.Chelsea could play at Twickenham if Stamford Bridge is rebuiltCredit: AlamyO Romeo O RomeoCHELSEA fans were delighted to see Romeo Lavia back in action at the weekend.But the Belgian midfielder’s return left Maresca pondering what might have been.Lavia, 21, has made just NINE Prem starts, all this season, since his £58m move from Southampton in 2023, after a seemingly endless series of ankle, thigh and hamstring problems.When Lavia looked to be limping towards the end of the first half of the win over Everton, there were fears of another issue, although he was able to play until mid-way through the second period before being rested.Maresca said: “You could see the difference he made, particularly playing through the lines.“I spent one entire season with Romeo at City, actually, so I know him very well.“Like with James, he is a top player. The only shame for us is that unfortunately we need to manage and protect them.“There’s no doubt that with Reece and Romeo, Chelsea are a better team. He is a unique player.“When he is fit he’s one of the best midfielders around because he can defend very well and attack as well and his passes between the lines are unbelievable.”Injury-hit Romeo Lavia returned against EvertonCredit: Getty More

    • 175 Shares130 Views

      in Soccer

      European semi-finals set to take centre stage as Dream Team season reaches dramatic climax

      by

      DOUBLE Gameweeks are invaluable in the world of Dream Team.More fixtures equals more point-scoring opportunities and with the season reaching its dramatic climax, gaffers should endeavour to make the most of the precious few double Gameweeks remaining.Madueke, Rice and Solanke starred in the European quarter-finalsCredit: Dream TeamDream Team managers have been blessed by the fact FOUR English teams have reached the semi-final stage of the European competitions.Arsenal are set to take on PSG in a mouthwatering Champions League tie.Premier League stragglers Manchester United and Tottenham will face Athletic Bilbao and Bodo Glimt respectively in the Europa League.While Chelsea have to get past Djurgarden if they are to reach the Conference League final.The first legs of all these semi-finals will take place in Gameweek 33 with the second legs to follow in Gameweek 34 around the usual domestic action.Arteta oversaw a fantastic victory over Real MadridCredit: ReutersIn a perfect world, these match-ups would be more favourable.The Gunners were hugely impressive against Real Madrid in the Champions League quarter-finals but they will have to produce a pair of performances of equal quality (at least) if they are to eliminate Luis Enrique’s side – PSG are on the brink of an invincible Ligue 1 campaign.Declan Rice (£4.9m) leads the way for points among Arsenal players with Bukayo Saka (£6.4m), David Raya (£4.5m) and William Saliba (£4.3m) completing the top four.Most read in FootballHowever, it’s important to note that Mikel Arteta’s side will only double up in Gameweek 34 as they will not be in action this weekend.Only Mohamed Salah has more points than Bruno Fernandes this seasonCredit: AlamyDream Team bosses may be hesitant to back the Red Devils and Spurs given both clubs are among the most disappointing under-performers in the Premier League this season.Even so, these additional fixtures are too tempting to pass up.Plus, the likes of Bruno Fernandes (£7m), Pedro Porro (£4.9m), Alejandro Garnacho (£3.3m), Dejan Kulusevski (£4.1m) and others have provided plentiful points despite the broader weaknesses of the teams they represent.Predicting Arsenal, Spurs or Man United’s semi-final fortunes comes with risk but Chelsea have to be considered strong favourites to beat their Swedish opponents over two legs, hence why Cole Palmer (£5m) is currently the most popular recruit ahead of Gameweek 33 despite his dwindling form.Forest will also pull double duty this coming GameweekCredit: GettyIt’s worth noting that Nottingham Forest will also pull double duty in Gameweek 33.Nuno Espirito Santo’s side will face Manchester City in the FA Cup semi-finals this weekend before hosting Brentford in the league on Thursday night.UPCOMING DOUBLE HEADERSGAMEWEEK 33MANCHESTER UNITED v Bournemouth (a) & Athletic Bilbao (a)TOTTENHAM v Liverpool (a) & Bodo Glimt (h)CHELSEA v Everton (h) & Djurgarden (a)NOTTINGHAM FOREST v Man City (n) & Brentford (h)GAMEWEEK 34ARSENAL v Bournemouth (h) & PSG (a)MANCHESTER UNITED v Brentford (a) & Athletic Bilbao (h)TOTTENHAM v West Ham (a) & Bodo Glimt (a)CHELSEA v Liverpool (h) & Djurgarden (h)Read More on The SunDream Team bosses should endeavour to make the most of these additional fixtures.The deadline for Gameweek 33 is 11am this Saturday.Score PredictorPlay Score Predictor with Dream Team this season!FREE to play£250 weekly prizePredict scores of five selected Premier League fixtures and earn points for accuracyMost points wins weekly cash prizePLAY NOW More

    • 213 Shares91 Views

      in Soccer

      Pop icon with £580MILLION net worth makes shock appearance at Stamford Bridge for Chelsea vs Legia Warsaw

      by

      POP icon Madonna was a surprise attendee of Chelsea’s Europa Conference League clash with Legia Warsaw.The Blues welcomed the Polish big boys to Stamford Bridge for the second leg of their quarter-final tie on Thursday night.Chelsea welcomed Legia Warsaw to Stamford Bridge for the second leg of their Europa League quarter-final tieCredit: GETTYPop superstar Madonna was a surprise attendee of the matchCredit: CBS SPORTSStamford Bridge wasn’t at full capacity for the game as Enzo Maresca’s troops had effectively killed off the tie with a 3-0 win in the first leg earlier this month.But the 29,027 Blues fans in attendance were joined by the music legend, 66.Cameras spotted the ‘Like a Virgin’ star – who has a net worth of £580million – in one of the Bridge’s swanky boxes during the second half.And the viewers were stunned to see the American icon at the match.READ MORE SPORTS NEWS One wrote on X: “Madonna is at the game.”Another said: “Why is Madonna watching Chelsea vs Legia Warsaw?”And another said: “Madonna in the house.”One remarked: “I can’t believe Chelsea is about to lose while Madonna is there watching.”Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSLegia Warsaw won the return leg 2-1 but lost the tie 4-2Credit: EPAAnother chimed in: “Never knew Madonna was a Chelsea fan.”Madonna – real name Madonna Louise Veronica Ciccone – saw the Blues suffer a 2-1 defeat on the night.Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca says it is up to fans to decide whether to back the teamBut it mattered little due to the west Londoners’ 3-0 advantage from the first leg, which saw them win the tie 4-2 on aggregate. More

    • 200 Shares91 Views

      in Soccer

      Chelsea player ratings: Filip Jorgensen anxiety personified with Nkunku no better… but Cucurella shines once again

      by

      CHELSEA are Europa Conference League semi-finalists – but they made hard work of it at home to Legia Warsaw as they suffered defeat in the competition for the first time. It took just ten minutes for the deadlock to be broken when Filip Jorgensen brought down Tomas Pekhart inside the box – and the Czech forward slotted his penalty into the bottom right corner. Filip Jorgensen struggled between the sticks as Chelsea made hard work of Legia WarsawCredit: GettyThe goalkeeper gave the visitors the perfect start when he gave a penalty awayCredit: GettyMarc Cucurella settled any nerves by getting on the scoresheet againCredit: GettyWith Chelsea behind, they needed someone to step up and it was Marcos Alonso re-born who did so, in Marc Cucurella. The Spanish full-back converted a Jadon Sancho square ball to level the scoring, before being denied a second goal just moments later by the offside flag. If the Warsaw fans hadn’t already stolen the attention of everyone at Stamford Bridge by taking their shirts off, they certainly did so in the second half, when they lit flares in celebration of their side’s second goal. It was Steve Kapuadi who capitalised on more questionable Chelsea defending to put his side 2-1 up on the night and set the corner of the Shed End alight, much to the frustration of Enzo Maresca. The Chelsea fans had one more moment of temporary joy, when Tyrique George finished off a Noni Madueke ball across the box, only for the hosts to be denied by the offside flag once again. They’ll look to put this one behind them, but at least they’re into the semi-finals.Here’s how SunSport’s Lloyd Canfield rated the players…Filip Jorgensen – 1Anxiety personified. Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSGave away a penalty after just ten minutes which saw Legia Warsaw take the lead and give them belief that they could make a shock comeback at Stamford Bridge. The Dane in goal just looked completely void of confidence, missed multiple crosses and struggled all around. Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca says it is up to fans to decide whether to back the teamAt least he’s decent at passing out the back *rolls eyes*…Josh Acheampong – 4Was caught on the ball on a few occasions, and didn’t look entirely comfortable in this one. He did still make some good blocks for his side though, with some important tackles too. A youngster who undeniably has a great amount of talent, this game will be a good learning experience for him. Tosin Adarabioyo – 4Tosin has been a leader at Stamford Bridge this season, and a key part in a lot of their good performances in this competition especially. Tonight however wasn’t his finest night, as he was caught out of position by the ball that led to the penalty. He didn’t have a real howler, but with two goals conceded it’s hard to give him higher than average. Benoit Badiashile – 4Not the performance he would’ve wanted in what was his 50th appearance for Chelsea. Was well advanced up the pitch for Legia Warsaw’s second goal, and left his defensive line vulnerable when the Polish side grabbed their second and eventual winner. Marc Cucurella – 8I am from here on re-naming Marc Cucurella El Pinguino, in honour of how often we are seeing his penguin celebration this season. He’s enjoying a fantastic season, and kept his name in the running for Chelsea’s player of the season with another goal in his most prolific campaign to date. A left-back one minute, and a centre-forward the next, he arrived late in the box once more to finish Sancho’s cross and equalise, before having a second goal disallowed for offside. The best player on the pitch in blue, again. Reece James (C) – 5Maresca’s insistence on playing Reece James in midfield continued tonight, after he was rested entirely in the draw with Ipswich. For my money, he is still best utilised in the right-back role where he is able to bomb forward and use his attacking prowess and strength to his advantage. Wasn’t bad in midfield by any means, but didn’t stamp his authority on the game as he has done previously. Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall – 6Kept up a decent run of form in this competition with another solid performance tonight in midfield. KDH was comfortable in possession and looked after the ball, while also working hard off it to win possession for his side on a few occasions. Jadon Sancho – 7With a point to prove before the end of the season, Sancho was back on the right wing for Chelsea tonight after his wonder strike against Ipswich from the left-hand side of the box. He played a vital role in Chelsea’s equaliser, beating his man and squaring a perfect ball across the box for Cucurella to tap home. Worked really hard throughout, doing his defensive duties well too. Cole Palmer – 3If this game took place in the first half of the season, Cole Palmer would’ve had two goals in the opening five minutes…The curious case of Cole in 2025 is one that I have studied up close this year, and after being a shock starter in this game, it should have been the perfect chance for him to end his barren run. He picked up a knock early on, but still had chances and just cannot get the ball in the back of the net at the moment. He is really struggling out there right now, which is hard to see for a player with so much undeniable quality. It was another game without a goal or assist for Cole PalmerCredit: ReutersChristopher Nkunku – 2One of the most frustrating players I have seen in a Chelsea shirt. It is bizarre how a player can go from genuinely looking like a star destined for the heights of football for RB Leipzig, to so lacklustre in blue. The Frenchman has so, so much talent, but just doesn’t even look bothered about using it with the form he’s in at the moment – he looks worlds away from the player we saw in pre-season. If you gave most fans a choice between Nkunku and Timo Werner at the moment, they would probably choose the latter. Christopher Nkunku continues to struggle for the BluesCredit: GettyNicolas Jackson – 2Utterly toothless in the first half and didn’t even look like scoring when he was on the pitch. Was hooked at half-time and replaced by Tyrique George as Palmer moved into the striker position.This should have been a game for him to build his confidence after returning from injury, but if anything it would’ve done some damage to him in that aspect. SUBSTyrique George (for Jackson, HT) – 6George is surely deserving of another start in this competition by now. He was denied a goal by the offside flag, but looked generally better than most of his peers when he came on at half-time. He was a little hasty at times with the ball at his feet around the edge of the box, but you can’t blame him at least for trying to score. Malo Gusto (for Cucurella, 57) – 5Played in the pivot in midfield for the most part, alongside Reece James in an experiment that didn’t really work. Cucurella was far better when he was on the pitch but it was the right decision for Maresca to take him off in the grand scheme of things as they will need him for Fulham away at the weekend. Noni Madueke (for Palmer, 57) – 6Was easily Chelsea’s most threatening player after coming off the bench. Took plenty of shots, and should be applauded for that despite none of them hitting the back of the net tonight – at least he injected some energy into his side. Read More on The SunWas unfortunate not to get an assist as his run was slightly offside before he squared the ball for George who tapped into an empty net. Pedro Neto (for Sancho, 83) – 5Didn’t have enough time to make a real impact on the game, and didn’t have many touches at all. Enzo Maresca did not see the type of performance he wantedCredit: AFPLegia Warszawa’s fans certainly created an almighty atmosphere in the away endCredit: Getty More

    • 225 Shares165 Views

      in Soccer

      Chelsea 1 Legia Warsaw 2 (agg 4-2): Enzo Maresca’s bafflingly strong XI stumbles into semi-final with embarrassing loss

      by

      ENZO MARESCA’S bid to win over the Chelsea fans went up in smoke.The Italian head coach packed his team to the hilt with A-List stars in an attempt to deliver a display of determination and re-energise Stamford Bridge after a series of turgid performances.Steve Kapuadi celebrates heading Legia’s winner on the nightCredit: RexTyrique George had a goal ruled out for the below-par BluesCredit: GettyLegia Warsaw fans let off flares while their team troubled ChelseaCredit: ReutersJadon Sancho put in a stellar performance – but was the only Chelsea star to do soCredit: AFPBut even though the Blues are through to the semi finals of the Conference League they were beaten on the night by the fifth best team in Poland.It marks their first home defeat of 2025 and the first in the main draw of UEFA’s C-List tournament – which Chelsea are expected to win comfortably.Plumes of smoke from flares ignited in the away end covered the pitch during the second half. But there was no hiding place for Maresca’s £1 billion squad as they were humbled.Even though they are comfortably into the last four on aggregate, the result has done nothing to ease the growing tension on the terraces from fans sometimes angry but mainly bored by Maresca’s tactics.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe sluggish tempo and tip toeing around their own box led to jeers from a crowd demanding more gusto – and not Malo the right back.Were it not for the constant throb of chanting from 1,000 shirtless Poles, the atmosphere inside Stamford Bridge would have been flat at best, angry at worst at another let down of an evening out.Maresca went for it with his line-up. Skipper Reece James, England star Cole Palmer, lead striker Nicolas Jackson, Euro 2024 winner Marc Cucurella. All included in the starting XI and nobody was quite sure whether it was for target practice ahead of Sunday’s trip to Fulham, or as punishment for last Sunday’s dismal showing against Ipswich.Most read in Europa LeagueChelsea boss Enzo Maresca didn’t look too pleased with what he sawCredit: GettyBlues’ keeper Filip Jorgensen let in Tomas Pekhart’s penalty openerCredit: APBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKBut while Chelsea are struggling for conviction in the Premier League, Europe is a different matter entirely.The level of opposition has enabled Maresca to make drastic rotations to his squad and mainly use his second string.Marc Cucurella made his Chelsea equaliser look easyCredit: GettyThat all changed last night with the more heavyweight line up. And it quickly became apparent that Maresca’s main driver was a bid to sharpen up his troops for the run in to the domestic season.After just a minute, Palmer was through one on one yet skewed his shot to the left of goal and should have done better.Four minutes later he missed again with a stooping header, although this was more the fault of team-mate Jadon Sancho for squaring the ball instead of shooting when within range of goal.And Chelsea’s problems this season were soon evident again in microcosm. Having been totally in charge for the opening ten minutes and created two chances, they fell behind.Warsaw’s first foray into the home area saw keeper Filip Jorgensen haul down midfielder forward Tomas Pekhart, with the Spanish ref awarding a penalty.The former Southampton player calmly thumped the ball into the back of the net from 12 yards.Away fans had a cracking night despite going out on aggregateCredit: GettyPekhart hails his 10th minute spot-kick breakthrough for LegiaCredit: PACucurella celebrated his goal with provider Jadon SanchoCredit: GettyWith Chelsea enjoying a commanding 3-0 first leg lead, there was no panic and even subdued celebrations from the boisterous visiting fans.Sancho finally threaded a perpendicular ball through in the 31st minute when he squared through the box for Cucurella to divert the ball in from seven yards out to get Chelsea back on level terms on the night.Yet there is something fragile about Maresca’s team – even his first choice one. And with the fans getting on the players’ backs like they did on Sunday, they wilted again.And that gifted Warsaw a golden chance to regain the lead eight minutes into the second half.From a corner, Chelsea failed to clear their lines and a rebounding shot into the danger area from Claud Goncalves found its way to the head of unmarked Steve Kapaudi to simply nod past Jorgensen.The goal was the cue for dozens of flares to light up the away end.Sub Noni Madueke injected some life on the flank and had a shot cleared off the line, fellow sub Tyrique George’s follow up squirmed under the keeper but was hooked off the line by goalscorer Kapaudi.Read More on The SunFor a while the pitch was shrouded in choking white mist, shrouding the action as Maresca’s team tried to up the ante against the grey clouds of frustration overhanging the home fans.When it cleared Chelsea were still labouring against far inferior opposition as they have done too often  this season in all competitions. More

    • 200 Shares119 Views

      in Soccer

      Chelsea name 17-year-old son of former club chief in Conference League squad to face Legia Warsaw

      by

      ENZO MARESCA has named the 17-year-old son of a former club director in Chelsea’s Conference League squad for Thursday’s clash against Legia Warsaw.Landon Emenalo, son of Michael Emenalo, could get his first minutes in the Blues’ quarter-final second leg at Stamford Bridge.Landon Emenalo has been named to Chelsea’s squad to face Polish side Legia WarsawCredit: GettyThe teenage midfielder was invited to train with Enzo Maresca for the first time this weekCredit: GettyChelsea have one foot in the semi-finals after beating Legia 3-0 last weekThe Premier League side were dominant in the first leg in Poland, with a first senior goal from Tyrique George, 19, and a brace from Noni Madueke giving them a 3-0 lead.The Conference League has provided a chance for a number of youngsters to make their senior debuts for the club. As well as George, Shumaira Mheuka, 17, and Samuel Rak-Sakyi, 20, have seen nearly all of their minutes come in this competition.And Emenalo is the latest name in that list after being added to Chelsea’s first team squad for the first time ever.READ MORE ON CHELSEAThe teenage midfielder was invited to train with the first team this week for the first time and was registered with Uefa overnight.Emenalo is the son of former technical director and Nigeria international Michael Emenalo. Landon has impressed for the U18s this season, scoring once in 12 games.The youngster initially joined Chelsea through the Under-8s development centre.Most read in FootballJoin SUN CLUB for the Chelsea Files every Tuesday plusin-depth coverage and exclusives from Stamford BridgeAlthough he spent time with Monaco, the defensive midfielder returned to Cobham during his Under-13s season.Emenalo signed his first professional contract with Chelsea after celebrating his 17th birthday in January. Inside Chelsea’s Strasbourg talent factory as angry fans fight identity crisis He was born in Arizona and has a US national mother that allows him the option of representing the United States or England.Landon, who was reportedly raised as a Chelsea fan, is highly thought of at Cobham.His dad Micheal played for clubs such as Notts County and San Jose Clash during his career before hanging up his boots to venture into coaching and board-level roles.The 59-year-old worked as a scout and assistant manager for Chelsea between 2007 and 2011, before taking the role as technical director for six years.During his time in SW6 he worked alongside managers such as Jose Mourinho and Carlo Ancelotti, while he was also part of the team that brought in players such as Kevin De Bruyne, N’Golo Kante and Eden Hazard.Since then he has held the same position at AS Monaco and is now the president of the league association for the Saudi Pro League.Chelsea ratings vs IpswichJADON SANCHO spared Chelsea’s blushes as Enzo Maresca’s side came from behind to draw against Ipswich.The relegation-threatened Tractor Boys went 2-0 up after 31 minutes with Chelsea flat throughout the first half.But Maresca’s men woke up after the break and fought back for what will still be a disappointing point as they chase a Champions League spot.So who were the shining lights for the Blues – and who had an afternoon to forget?Read Conor Jones’ ratings here to find out. More