Copenhagen vs Chelsea: All You Need to Know for the First Leg of the Round of 16 | OneFootball

Copenhagen vs Chelsea: Conference League Preview, Team News, and Prediction

Chelsea return to Conference League action this Thursday as they take on Copenhagen in the first leg of their Round of 16 tie. The Blues come into the match as heavy favourites, but Copenhagen’s recent performances and Chelsea’s struggles away from home make this a potentially tricky fixture.

Chelsea’s Strong Group Stage and Recent Form

Chelsea’s journey to the knockout stages of the Conference League was straightforward, finishing top of their group with a perfect record of six wins from six matches. Their dominance in the league phase left them with no need to face the daunting two-legged playoff tie, setting them up as strong contenders for the competition’s crown.

However, despite their success in Europe, Chelsea’s recent form has been less impressive domestically. Their latest victory was a much-needed 4-0 triumph over Southampton in the Premier League, offering a glimpse of their potential. Yet, their away form has been cause for concern. Chelsea have lost their last four matches on the road, with their last win away from London coming in December against Astana.

Photo: IMAGO

Copenhagen’s Resilience and European Experience

Copenhagen, on the other hand, have shown their resilience in recent European campaigns. After losing the first leg of their knockout playoff tie against Heidenheim, the Danish side mounted an impressive comeback in the return fixture, progressing after extra time. This spirit will be crucial as they prepare to face Chelsea, a club with greater pedigree but one struggling on the road.

Copenhagen’s strength at home was evident last season in their Champions League campaign, where they secured a memorable 1-0 victory over Manchester United. This will serve as a warning for Chelsea, who cannot afford to underestimate the Danish side on their home turf.

Team News: Key Absences and Rotation Plans

Copenhagen will rely on experienced players such as Thomas Delaney and Mohamed Elyounoussi to lead their charge against Chelsea. However, they will be without promising youngster Roony Bardghji, who is recovering from a cruciate ligament injury.

For Chelsea, manager Enzo Maresca has used the Conference League to rotate his squad, and this match is expected to be no different. With a number of injuries still troubling his squad, Maresca may rest certain key players despite the importance of the tie. Wesley Fofana is set to make his return to action after a long spell on the sidelines, but there may be no place for Cole Palmer, despite his eligibility to play in this competition.

Photo IMAGO

Where to Watch Copenhagen vs Chelsea

Copenhagen vs Chelsea Prediction

Chelsea are still the favourites to progress from this tie, but Copenhagen’s home form should not be taken lightly. The Danish side are a step up from the opponents Chelsea have faced so far in the competition, and their ability to compete on the European stage has been well-documented.

Chelsea’s away form is a concern, and with a rotated side likely to take the field, the Blues may struggle to dominate the match. Copenhagen, buoyed by their European pedigree, will be confident at home and could cause an upset.

Prediction: Copenhagen 2-1 Chelsea