Chelsea begin their journey in the UEFA Europa Conference League qualification with a crucial first-leg tie against Swiss side Servette at Stamford Bridge.
After a disappointing end to last season, where they finished 6th in the Premier League and missed out on Europa League qualification due to Manchester United’s FA Cup triumph, the Blues are determined to make their mark in Europe’s third-tier competition.
Background :
This qualification match holds significant importance for Chelsea, as advancing past Servette would secure their place in the Europa Conference League group stages.
Servette, who finished 3rd in the Swiss Super League last season and qualified for Europa League football for the first time in their history, find themselves in this position after a tough loss to Braga in the qualifiers.
Both teams will be eager to keep their European aspirations alive, making this a high-stakes encounter.
Chelsea’s Recent Form :
Chelsea are coming off a 2-0 defeat to Manchester City in their Premier League opener under new head coach Enzo Maresca.
Despite the loss, the team showed glimpses of promise, though defensive and midfield errors proved costly against the reigning champions.
A win in this qualification match is essential not only for Chelsea’s European ambitions but also to lift the spirits at Stamford Bridge, where fans expressed their dissatisfaction during the loss to City.
Servette’s Form :
Servette enter this match with momentum after a dominant 7-1 victory over Bernex in the Swiss Cup.
They’ll be looking to carry this confidence into their clash with Chelsea, hoping to pull off an upset on English soil.
Although Servette missed out on Europa League qualification, they remain a formidable opponent, capable of challenging Chelsea.
Historical Context :
Chelsea’s history against Swiss teams is a mixed bag, with three wins and three losses in six encounters.
Their last meeting with a Swiss side, FC Basel, in the 2013/14 Champions League group stage, ended in defeat both home and away.
The Blues will be eager to avoid a similar fate and assert their dominance in this qualification tie.
Key Players :
Chelsea: Cole Palmer, who recently won the PFA award as the young player of the year will be looking to replicate his performances last season and will be one to watch for Chelsea in this Matchup.
Servette: Miroslav Stevanović, Servette’s key playmaker, will be pivotal in their quest to unlock Chelsea’s defense and create scoring opportunities.
Potential Lineups:
Chelsea: 4-2-3-1 – Jorgensen; Gusto, Badiashile, Veiga, Cucurella; Lavia, Enzo; Madueke, Palmer, Neto; Guiu.
Servette: 4-2-3-1 – Frick; Tsunemoto, Rouiller, Severing, Mazikou; Douline, Ondoua; Stevanovic, Antunes, Kutesa; Crivelli.
Score Prediction: Chelsea 4-0 Servette.
Where to Watch:
Chelsea Official Website (£4.99/$6.5)
Conclusion
With both teams vying for a spot in the Europa Conference League group stages, this first-leg tie at Stamford Bridge promises to be a tense and competitive affair.
Chelsea will need to capitalise on their home advantage and put in a strong performance to take a lead into the second leg, while Servette will aim to build on their recent success and spring a surprise against the Premier League giants.
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