Chelsea secured a 2-1 victory over FC Copenhagen in the first leg of their UEFA Conference League Round of 16 tie at the Parken Stadium.
The first half saw Chelsea struggling to break through Copenhagen’s organized defense, failing to register a single shot on target. Manager Enzo Maresca made strategic changes at halftime, introducing Reece James, Enzo Fernández, and Levi Colwill to bolster the team’s performance.
The substitutions paid off immediately. Just after the break, Reece James collected a loose ball and unleashed a powerful 25-yard strike, giving Chelsea the lead.
Chelsea doubled their advantage in the 65th minute. Tyrique George’s precise pass found Enzo Fernández, who finished confidently to make it 2-0.
Copenhagen responded in the 79th minute. Gabriel Pereira headed in a well-delivered cross from Marcos López, reducing the deficit and keeping the Danish side’s hopes alive for the return leg.
Despite late pressure from Copenhagen, Chelsea held firm to secure the win. The teams will meet again at Stamford Bridge for the second leg, where Chelsea will aim to advance to the quarterfinals.
