Conference League: Maresca gets first win as Chelsea manager

Christopher Nkunku and Noni Madueke scored in the second half as Chelsea secured a 2-0 victory over Servette in the first leg of their UEFA Europa Conference League play-off round on Thursday.

This win marks Chelsea’s first under new coach Enzo Maresca, putting them in a strong position to advance to the group stage of the newly expanded 36-team competition.

After a frustrating first half at Stamford Bridge, Chelsea finally broke the deadlock in the 50th minute when Nkunku converted a penalty, notching his fourth goal for the club. Despite Marc Guiu’s missed open goal shortly after, Madueke came off the bench to double Chelsea’s lead with a clinical finish from an Enzo Fernandez pass, bringing the Blues closer to securing their spot in the group stage ahead of next week’s second leg.

Servette nearly pulled one back late in the game when Tiemoko Ouattara’s deflected shot hit the crossbar, but Chelsea held on for the win. The victory was a much-needed boost for Maresca’s side after a 2-0 defeat to Manchester City in the Premier League last weekend.

Reflecting on the win, Maresca, who guided Leicester to Premier League promotion last season, said, “We are learning how to manage the game. It was important to win with nine changes. There were many good things.”

However, there was a concern for Chelsea as key player Cole Palmer appeared to suffer a potential injury after the match, clutching the back of his leg as he left the pitch. Maresca remained optimistic, stating, “Cole felt something but he looks fine. Hopefully, it is no problem and he can be available for Sunday’s game against Wolves.”