Chelsea vs Legia Report

Scorers: Cucurella 33’; Pekhart 10’ (P), Kapuadi 53’

Chelsea progressed to the semi-finals of the UEFA Conference League despite a 2-1 defeat to Legia Warsaw at Stamford Bridge, securing a 4-2 aggregate victory. The Blues were made to work harder than expected, but their commanding first-leg performance ensured safe passage through to the final four.

Maresca Names Strong Lineup as Chelsea Look to Bounce Back

After a disappointing 2-2 draw with Ipswich Town in the Premier League, which extended Chelsea’s poor domestic form, head coach Enzo Maresca made it clear he wasn’t taking any chances. Despite holding a 3-0 aggregate lead, he named a strong starting XI, with Cole Palmer, Nicolas Jackson, Reece James, Marc Cucurella, and Christopher Nkunku all included from the off.

The hosts began with intent, dominating the early possession and creating the first meaningful openings. Palmer fired wide from a promising position before both he and Nkunku were denied by Vladan Kovačević in the Legia goal.

Early Penalty Shifts Momentum

Against the run of play, Legia were handed a route back into the tie when Filip Jörgensen brought down Tomáš Pekhart inside the area. The striker dusted himself off and converted from the spot, despite Jörgensen getting a glove to the ball. The goal gave Legia renewed belief, and Ryoya Morishita came close to doubling the lead with a low drive that narrowly missed the post.

Chelsea, to their credit, responded and soon found an equaliser. A period of sustained pressure paid dividends in the 33rd minute when Cucurella latched onto a loose ball in the box and slotted home to level the score on the night.

The Spaniard almost turned the tie completely in Chelsea’s favour minutes later, but his second goal was chalked off for offside following a swift VAR check.

Legia Refuse to Go Quietly

With little to lose, Legia came out for the second half with attacking intent. Claude Gonçalves tested Jörgensen before Steve Kapuadi restored the visitors’ lead in the 57th minute, powering in a close-range header from a corner that exposed Chelsea’s vulnerability at set pieces.

That strike gave the Polish side hope of producing an unlikely comeback, and it took a pair of goal-line clearances to deny Noni Madueke and Tyrique George from drawing Chelsea level once again. Substitute Jadon Sancho also forced a solid stop from Kovačević as the hosts looked to kill off the tie once and for all.

Chelsea Progress but Questions Remain

Despite the defeat, Chelsea’s aggregate cushion proved enough, and they now move into the semi-finals with hopes of lifting a first European trophy since 2021. The Blues are bidding to become the first team to win all three of UEFA’s current club competitions – a feat made possible thanks to previous UEFA Champions League and UEFA Europa League triumphs.

While progression is certainly cause for celebration, Maresca’s side will be concerned by the performance itself. Lapses in concentration, a sluggish second half, and defensive disorganisation highlighted the inconsistencies that have plagued their campaign.

Legia’s Honourable Exit

For Legia Warsaw, this match marks the end of an impressive European journey. Their 2-1 win at Stamford Bridge is their first ever victory on English soil, and they leave the competition with heads held high after pushing the tournament favourites all the way.

For more info on this game’s outcome, you may also visit:
Chelsea vs Legia Warszawa | UEFA Conference League 2024/25