Chelsea vs Gent Preview
- Chelsea to win
- Sancho to assist
Chelsea’s European Ambitions
After a season without continental football, Chelsea are ready to embark on their first-ever UEFA Conference League campaign.
While the competition may not carry the glamour of UEFA’s more elite tournaments, Chelsea will have plenty of motivation, as lifting the trophy would make them the first team to win all three of UEFA’s major club competitions.
Under manager Enzo Maresca, the Blues are favourites to do just that, but their hard-fought 3-2 aggregate win over Servette in qualifying revealed that the road to glory won’t be straightforward.
Nevertheless, Chelsea are in good form, with a four-game winning streak, and they’ve lost just one of their last 14 home matches (W11, D2), setting up Stamford Bridge as a fortress.
Gent’s European Experience and Ambitions
Gent head into this clash as regular participants in the Conference League, marking their fourth consecutive season in the competition. The Belgian side has proven to be a competitive force, reaching the knockout stages in each of their previous three campaigns.
Having won five out of six of their qualifying matches (D1) to reach the league phase this term, Gent will be looking to make a statement against a top-tier side like Chelsea.
The Buffalos are no strangers to facing English opposition, having played six matches against London clubs—Tottenham and West Ham—with mixed results (W1, D3, L2).
This will be their first competitive meeting against Chelsea, and with Gent’s recent continental performances, they will be confident of causing an upset.
Key Players to Watch
Jadon Sancho (Chelsea)
Sancho has made a great start to life in London, assisting a goal in all three of his appearances for Chelsea so far.
The dynamic winger has been particularly effective early on, with two of those assists coming before the half-time break. His creativity on the flanks could be a decisive factor against Gent’s defence.
Max Dean (Gent)
Dean has also had a strong start at Gent, and his knack for scoring early in matches will be one to watch. Nine of his last 15 goalscoring outings saw him net the match opener, and he’ll be keen to continue that trend as Gent look to make a strong start at Stamford Bridge.
Chelsea’s Home Strength vs Gent’s European Resilience
- Chelsea’s home form: One loss in their last 14 home matches (W11, D2).
- Gent’s European performance: Reached the knockout rounds in each of their last three Conference League campaigns.
- Gent’s record vs London clubs: W1, D3, L2 across six matches against Tottenham and West Ham.
Conclusion
Chelsea are heavy favourites to open their UEFA Conference League campaign with a win, particularly given their strong form at home and their aspirations to secure the trophy.
However, Gent have shown their pedigree on the European stage and could provide a stern test for the Blues. A fast start will be key for both teams, with Jadon Sancho and Max Dean likely to play pivotal roles in what could be an entertaining encounter.
Prediction: Chelsea to secure a hard-fought victory, but Gent to pose a significant threat throughout the match.
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Chelsea vs Gent | UEFA Conference League 2024/25