Chelsea’s best result under Liam Rosenior by some way has helped them automatically book their place in the Round of 16 of the Champions League.
The Blues came from behind to beat Napoli 3-2 thanks to Joao Pedro’s second-half brace, maintaining their excellent start to life under Rosenior.
Chelsea will face either PSG, Newcastle, Monaco or Qarabag in the next round, crucially avoiding playing two extra games in the form of a play-off.
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Napoli 2-3 Chelsea
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The victory is even more impressive when taking into account the situation the visitors found themselves in at half-time. The Blues trailed following Rasmus Hojlund’s goal.
SSC Napoli v Chelsea FC - UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD8
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Rasmus Hojlund admits Chelsea had more energy than Napoli
The striker, on loan from Manchester United, scored his 10th goal of the season, although admitted Chelsea were the far better side in the latter stages.
He told TNT Sports that his side ran out of energy around the 60 minute mark, and Chelsea’s superior substitutes were the difference.
He said: “As you say it’s frustrating, but we played against a great opponent today. Of course, we wanted more out of this game so we could go through.
“Good energy in the team, but I don’t want to make any excuses but we’re very short in the team right now, and you probably saw that in the second half. They brought on Garnacho and Cole Palmer and these sort of players, incredible players. We struggled a little with the energy after 60 minutes.”
Napoli have now been eliminated from the competition, with former Blues boss Antonio Conte not able to drag his side to a place in the top 24.
SSC Napoli v Chelsea FC - UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD8
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Rosenior’s tactical risk pays off eventually
The most notable feature of Chelsea’s starting XI was the fact that there was only one recognised centre-back named in the side.
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Reece James appeared to start alongside Wesley Fofana at the heart of defence, with Rosenior stating he wanted to be aggressive and go out to try and win the game.
He also admitted he made changes at the break which helped solidify things, and they faced very few threats in the second half.
Romelu Lukaku came closest to finding the net in the final moments, although he was denied a dream goal by Robert Sanchez.
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