The UEFA Conference League semi-finals delivered fireworks as Chelsea took a massive step toward booking their place in the final with a dominant 4-1 win over Djurgarden in Stockholm. Powered by a brace from Nicolas Jackson and goals from Jadon Sancho and Noni Madueke, the Blues now hold a firm advantage heading into the return leg at Stamford Bridge.
In what has been a surprisingly successful UEFA Conference League campaign for Enzo Maresca’s side, Chelsea fielded a youthful lineup and still completely outclassed their Swedish opponents. The artificial pitch and the noisy 3Arena atmosphere did little to derail Chelsea’s rhythm as they showcased why they remain favourites to lift the UEFA Conference League trophy on May 28.
Early Dominance Sets the Tone
From the outset, Chelsea looked like a team on a mission. Within 12 minutes, they struck their first blow in this UEFA Conference League semi-final. Enzo Fernandez floated a cross to the far post that Sancho controlled calmly before firing a deflected shot into the back of the net. That early goal gave the Blues control, which they maintained throughout.
Madueke soon added to the tally with a well-taken goal, further stamping Chelsea’s authority on the UEFA Conference League clash. It was the winger’s third goal in the competition this season and continued his impressive form in Europe.
Djurgarden Crumble Under Pressure
Djurgarden, who had defied expectations to reach the UEFA Conference League last four, looked second-best for most of the match. Despite some promising moments, including a glancing header from Adam Stahl and a near-miss from Hampus Findell, they were unable to cope with Chelsea’s relentless pace and precision.
Jackson, having recently ended his domestic goal drought, found his scoring boots again on the European stage. His first came from a defensive blunder, and his second was a stunning long-range strike — arguably the pick of Chelsea’s four on the night.
Chelsea Close In on UEFA Conference League Final
With a three-goal cushion and the return leg at home, Chelsea are now overwhelming favourites to reach the UEFA Conference League final. Their clinical display serves as a warning to whoever awaits in the final — likely either Fiorentina or Real Betis.
Isak Mulugeta’s late header did give Djurgarden something to cheer about, but the Swedes will need a miracle in London if they are to overturn the 4-1 deficit. Chelsea, meanwhile, are peaking at just the right time in the UEFA Conference League.
Focus Turns to Stamford Bridge
Maresca praised his team’s composure and energy post-match, highlighting their hunger to go all the way in the UEFA Conference League. “This is a team that has grown into the competition. Now we’re one match away from a European final — and the players know what’s at stake,” he said.
The UEFA Conference League may not have the glamour of the Champions League, but it has become a crucial opportunity for Chelsea to cap their season with silverware and build momentum for next year. With domestic inconsistency plaguing their Premier League campaign, European success would offer redemption.
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Other Semi-Final Update
In the other UEFA Conference League semi-final, Real Betis beat Fiorentina 2-1, thanks to goals from Abde Ezzalzouli and Manchester United loanee Antony. Luca Ranieri’s late strike gives Fiorentina hope ahead of the return leg in Florence.
Whether it’s Betis or Fiorentina in the final, Chelsea look ready. As the UEFA Conference League prepares for its climactic finale, the Blues have issued a statement of intent — and they’re not done yet.
