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Chelsea Return to Europa Conference League Action Against Copenhagen
Chelsea will make their Europa Conference League comeback on Thursday evening as they face Copenhagen in the first leg of their last-16 tie. The Blues last played in European competition in December, where they dominated the group stage by winning all six matches comfortably, securing top spot and avoiding the playoff round. Meanwhile, Copenhagen narrowly edged past Heidenheim in the playoffs.
Favorites to Win
Chelsea are not only favorites to progress past Copenhagen but are also tipped to win the Europa Conference League outright. However, manager Enzo Maresca will be demanding focus from his squad as he aims to secure his first piece of silverware with the West London club.
Recent Form
Chelsea enjoyed a weekend off after being knocked out of the FA Cup in the fourth round. Copenhagen, on the other hand, were in action on Sunday, drawing 0-0 with AaB Aalborg, which saw their lead at the top of the Danish Superliga reduced to just one point.
Team News
Copenhagen:
Copenhagen are dealing with a host of injuries that will limit their options. Defender Nicolai Boilesen, midfielders Lukas Lerager and Oliver Hojer, and forwards Jordan Larsson, Andreas Cornelius, Roony Bardghji, and Mohamed Elyounoussi are all unavailable for the game.
Copenhagen Predicted Lineup (4-4-2): Ramaj; Diks, Pereira, Garananga, Meling; Mattsson, Clem, Froholdt, Achouri; Claesson, Chiakha.
Chelsea:
Chelsea have their own injury concerns, with Nicolas Jackson, Marc Guiu, and Noni Madueke sidelined. Long-term absentees Romeo Lavia and Wesley Fofana are not registered for the Europa Conference League, while Mykhailo Mudryk remains suspended. However, Benoit Badiashile is set to make his return to the squad after recovering from injury, although he is unlikely to start. New signings Cole Palmer, Trevoh Chalobah, and Mathis Amougou have been registered for the competition and are available for selection.
Chelsea Predicted Lineup (4-2-3-1): Sanchez; Gusto, Adarabioyo, Colwill, Cucurella; Caicedo, Fernandez; Sancho, Palmer, Nkunku; Neto.
Match Prediction
With Copenhagen’s forward line severely depleted, they will struggle to pose a significant threat to Chelsea. The Blues have been dominant in the Conference League so far, scoring 26 goals in six group-stage games. Maresca is expected to field a strong starting XI, and Chelsea’s well-rested squad should have no trouble securing a comfortable victory.
Prediction: Copenhagen 0-3 Chelsea
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