Chelsea secured their place in the UEFA Conference League quarter-finals with a composed victory over Copenhagen at Stamford Bridge.
Enzo Maresca’s side entered the second leg with a narrow 2-1 advantage from last week’s trip to Denmark and ensured progression with a 1-0 win on home soil. The result extends Chelsea’s flawless European record of never being eliminated from a knockout tie after winning the first leg away from home.
It was a tough watch for Chelsea fans who had to endure quite a dull first-half. The Blues failed to register a single shot, although the second half performance was certainly much better.
Cole Palmer's introduction brought the game to life - his quality and class helped the encounter open up, with chances starting to flow.
Eventually, Enzo Maresca's side found the net thanks to Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall. The Englishman managed to wriggle his way through a few defenders, before slotting with composure.
A performance that won't exactly be remembered, but a result that was much needed to keep the spirits alive at Stamford Bridge.
Filip Jorgensen - 6
Starting in goal for Chelsea, Filip Jorgensen had a quiet evening between the sticks, dealing comfortably with the few efforts that came his way. His handling was solid throughout, making routine saves with confidence.
With a crucial Premier League fixture against Arsenal looming, his selection here suggests he will likely return to the bench for that encounter.
Trevoh Chalobah – 6
The Englishman once again found himself deployed at right-back, a position he has been asked to fill on several occasions. While he looked more comfortable in his natural centre-back role in previous outings, he performed steadily on the night, keeping things simple defensively.
However, his attacking contribution was minimal, and Chelsea’s right flank lacked a real threat.
Tosin Adarabioyo – 6
Leading the pre-match team huddle, Tosin Adarabioyo demonstrated his growing influence within Chelsea’s youthful squad. The centre-half had a relatively untroubled evening, positioning himself well and dealing with Copenhagen’s limited attacking threat.
It was another composed defensive display, but he wasn’t particularly tested throughout the 90 minutes.
Benoit Badiashile – 5
Benoit Badiashile’s return to action was a welcome sight as he continues to regain full fitness after injury. However, it was not the smoothest outing for the Frenchman, as he looked a little rusty in possession.
Some of his passing was wayward, putting unnecessary pressure on his teammates. While his defensive positioning was sound, he will need more minutes to get back to his best.
Josh Acheampong – 6
Reinstated to the starting XI, Josh Acheampong played in an unfamiliar left-back role, frequently inverting into midfield when Chelsea had possession.
He showed plenty of intent and was one of the few bright sparks in an otherwise sluggish first half. His willingness to get on the ball and drive forward was encouraging, which made his half-time withdrawal a somewhat surprising decision.
Moises Caicedo – 8
Moises Caicedo delivered a typically industrious performance, providing Chelsea with stability in the middle of the park. His relentless energy, tough tackling, and ability to break up play were invaluable as he shielded the backline well.
He lasted 78 minutes before being replaced by Reece James, capping off another strong display.
Enzo Fernandez – 5
Enzo Fernandez has been an integral part of Chelsea’s midfield this season, but this was far from his most influential performance. Struggling to impose himself in the first half, he found it difficult to dictate the tempo of the game.
His lack of impact saw him substituted at half-time, as Enzo Maresca opted for changes to spark improvement.
Tyrique George – 6
Tyrique George played with enthusiasm and a real desire to make things happen, operating on both wings during his time on the pitch. He looked lively, using his dribbling ability to stretch Copenhagen’s defence.
However, his final product let him down, as he struggled to provide the decisive touch in key moments.
Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall – 8
A standout performer on the night, Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall was Chelsea’s match-winner, capping off a fine display with a superbly taken goal. His strike into the bottom corner was a moment of real quality, showcasing the technical brilliance he displayed so often at Leicester City.
Beyond his goal, he was composed in possession, linked play expertly, and covered ground tirelessly. This was the kind of performance Chelsea fans have been waiting to see from him.
Jadon Sancho – 5
Jadon Sancho endured a frustrating evening, failing to make a significant impact in the attacking third. Chelsea’s frontline was largely ineffective in the first half, and Sancho was no exception.
He did register a shot on target early in the second period, forcing a simple save from the Copenhagen goalkeeper, but he was withdrawn after 65 minutes for Christopher Nkunku.
Pedro Neto – 5
Pedro Neto has impressed in recent weeks despite playing as an emergency centre-forward, but this was a quieter night for the Portuguese international. He found himself isolated for long periods and struggled to get involved in attacking sequences.
He was substituted late on to allow 17-year-old Genesis Antwi to make his senior debut.
Substitutes
Cole Palmer – 7
Introduced at half-time, Cole Palmer helped shift the momentum in Chelsea’s favour. His ability to find space and influence the game in attacking areas made a noticeable difference.
He was heavily involved in Chelsea’s best attacking moves but was unable to add to his goal tally, despite testing the opposition goalkeeper with a couple of attempts.
Marc Cucurella – 7
Another half-time substitute who had a positive impact, Marc Cucurella brought much-needed energy to the left flank.
His forward runs and deliveries into the box were an upgrade on the first half, helping Chelsea establish control in wide areas.
Christopher Nkunku – 5
Given 25 minutes to make an impact, Christopher Nkunku struggled to impose himself on the game. He showed glimpses of quality in possession but lacked the cutting edge in the final third.
Reece James – N/A
Came on for the final 12 minutes to regain match fitness after his lengthy injury layoff.
Genesis Antwi – N/A
Made his senior debut late on, a special moment for the young prospect.