Chelsea, the reigning Champions League winners, are set to face FC Copenhagen in the last 16 of the Europa Conference League. This match-up comes after an impressive performance by Enzo Maresca’s side, who secured six wins out of six in the league phase. On the other hand, FC Copenhagen clinched a spot in the last 16 after a hard-fought victory over FC Heidenheim 1846 in the knockout play-offs, where they emerged victorious after extra time with a 4-3 aggregate score.
Chelsea’s Squad Additions and Injury Updates
In preparation for the knockout stage of the Conference League, Chelsea made some strategic squad additions. Cole Palmer, who was initially left out during the league phase to manage his playing time, has been included in the squad. Additionally, Crystal Palace loanee Trevoh Chalobah and Mathis Amougou, a £12 million deadline day signing, have also been added. It is important to note that UEFA regulations limit clubs to just three changes after the winter transfer window. Unfortunately, Wesley Fofana and Romeo Lavia, both dealing with injuries, remain sidelined for Chelsea in the Conference League.Chelsea’s Path to the Final
Looking ahead, Chelsea’s route to the final in the Europa Conference League includes potentially facing Molde or Legia Warsaw in the quarter-finals, and Pafos, Djurgarden, Borac, or SK Rapid in the semi-finals. The final showdown could see them up against Real Betis, Vitoria SC, Jagielloina, Cercle Brugge, Celje, Lugano, Panathinaikos, or Fiorentina. The draw for the Conference League has set up intriguing match-ups, with FC Copenhagen awaiting Chelsea in the last 16.
Looking ahead, Chelsea’s route to the final in the Europa Conference League includes potentially facing Molde or Legia Warsaw in the quarter-finals, and Pafos, Djurgarden, Borac, or SK Rapid in the semi-finals. The final showdown could see them up against Real Betis, Vitoria SC, Jagielloina, Cercle Brugge, Celje, Lugano, Panathinaikos, or Fiorentina. The draw for the Conference League has set up intriguing match-ups, with FC Copenhagen awaiting Chelsea in the last 16.
As for the schedule, the last 16 first legs are scheduled for Thursday, March 6, with the return fixtures set for Thursday, March 13. The quarter-finals will take place on April 10 and 17, followed by the semi-finals on May 1 and 8. The ultimate climax of the Europa Conference League will be the final on May 28, to be held in Wroclaw.
In a thrilling journey filled with ups and downs, Chelsea is poised to make their mark in the Europa Conference League. With a mix of seasoned players and new additions, the team is gearing up to face tough competition on the road to the final. Stay tuned as the drama unfolds on the pitch, showcasing the resilience and skill of these football giants.
