Chelsea secure 4-2 victory against Gent in Conference League: Details
Chelsea have solidified their position as a strong contender for the UEFA Conference League title, following a 4-2 triumph over Belgian team KAA Gent. The match took place at Stamford Bridge and marked the fourth instance this season where Chelsea have netted four or more goals in a single game. Each goal was scored by a different player, showcasing the team's diverse offensive capabilities. Here are further details.
Veiga scores his debut goal for Chelsea
The match began with KAA Gent implementing a high line strategy, initially limiting Chelsea's forward movement. However, the tide turned 10 minutes into the game when Renato Veiga scored his debut goal for Chelsea. He skillfully headed in a high ball from Mykhailo Mudryk, giving the home team an early lead and setting the tone for the rest of the match.
KAA Gent shifts strategy, Chelsea maintains dominance
Following Veiga's goal, KAA Gent altered their game plan to a more defensive stance. This change allowed Chelsea to maintain control of the ball and continue their offensive pressure. Despite this shift in strategy, the Belgian team managed to create some scoring opportunities with England U20 international Archie Brown and Andri Gudjohnsen making notable attempts on goal.
Second half sees goals from Neto and Watanabe
The second half of the match saw an immediate goal from Pedro Neto, who capitalized on a defensive error to score just 38 seconds after the whistle. However, Tsuyoshi Watanabe quickly responded by heading in a cross from Gudjohnsen, reducing Chelsea's lead once again. This rapid exchange of goals added excitement to the match and kept both teams on their toes.
Nkunku and Dewsbury-Hall extend Chelsea's lead
Christopher Nkunku extended Chelsea's lead by scoring the third goal after Veiga was unable to get a shot away. Shortly after, a tackle diverted Joao Felix's pass from Nkunku, but Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall was ready to strike. His shot slipped through goalkeeper Davy Roef's hands and into the net, further solidifying Chelsea's dominance in the match.
KAA Gent score late goal in Chelsea match
Despite trailing 4-1, KAA Gent managed to score a late goal. Max Dean, a former MK Dons forward, set up the opportunity for substitute Omri Gandelman who successfully found the back of the net. This final goal served as a consolation for the Belgian team and their supporters, capping off an eventful match at Stamford Bridge.
Chelsea vs Gent: Match stats
Chelsea made 20 attempts with five shots on target. Gent had three shots on target from nine attempts. The hosts had 70% ball possession and a 92% pass accuracy.
Twitter Post
Enzo Maresca pleased with win
After Chelsea's win, manager Enzo Maresca said his side approached the game well. "Good performance. It was a tough game and we approached it well very. It's a shame the second goal we conceded, we can avoid that," he said. "Every game is complicated. We have many things we can do better - attack better, defend better. The ones who play tonight it doesn't mean they won't play the next game," Maresca added.
