The round of 16 of the UEFA Europa Conference League kicks off with an exciting showdown between Copenhagen and Chelsea, two of the strongest contenders for the title.

This fixture holds historical significance, as the sides have met four times previously in European competition, all at the last-16 stage, with Chelsea progressing in both the 1998/99 Cup Winners’ Cup and 2010/11 UEFA Champions League.

Copenhagen’s Home Advantage

The Danish champions will be eager to avoid a third successive knockout elimination at Chelsea’s hands and will look to make home advantage count.

Copenhagen have been tough to beat at Parken Stadium, suffering just one defeat in their last nine competitive home games (W6, D2, L1), though that loss came in this very competition against Heidenheim.

They will need to be defensively solid to contain Chelsea’s attacking threat while hoping their strong home support can push them to a first-leg advantage.

Chelsea’s European Dominance

Despite their domestic inconsistencies, Chelsea have been dominant in the Conference League, finishing as the only team to win all six group-stage matches.

Their attacking prowess has been remarkable, scoring 26 goals in the league phase—at least eight more than any other team.

Their 4-0 Premier League win over Southampton last weekend should boost confidence, especially as it ended a three-match losing streak.

With a deep squad and a strong European pedigree, the Blues will be aiming for another statement performance.

Tactical Battle

• Copenhagen’s approach: Expect them to stay compact and disciplined, looking to hit Chelsea on the counter while capitalizing on set-piece opportunities.
• Chelsea’s attacking firepower: The visitors have thrived on fast, attacking play in Europe, and with Christopher Nkunku and Cole Palmer leading the charge, they’ll look to take early control.
• Key battles: Chelsea’s backline must deal with Copenhagen’s direct attacking play, while the hosts must prevent Nkunku and Neto from exploiting spaces.

Players to Watch

• Kevin Diks (Copenhagen): The defender has an incredible ten goals this season, all from the penalty spot—a potential threat if Copenhagen wins any spot-kicks.
• Christopher Nkunku (Chelsea): Has been outstanding in this competition, directly contributing to eight goals (5G, 3A) in five appearances—his best form this season has come in Europe.

Potential Lineups ;

Copenhagen: 4-2-3-1 – Ramaj; Huescas, Gabriel Pereira, Hatzidiakos, Lopez; Froholdt, Delaney; Claesson, Mattsson, Robert; Elyounoussi.

Chelsea: 4-2-3-1 – Sanchez; Gusto, Tosin, Colwill, Cucurella; Drewsbury-Hall, Caicedo; Neto, Palmer, Sancho; Nkunku.

Key Stats

• Copenhagen have lost just one of their last nine home matches in all competitions (W6, D2).
• Chelsea were the only team to win all six group-stage games in the Conference League.
• Chelsea have scored 26 goals in the competition—eight more than any other side.
• The two teams have met twice before in European knockout rounds, with Chelsea progressing both times.

Where to Watch: 

United Kingdom: TNT Sports 4

United States: Paramount+ & ViX

Canada: DAZN Canada

India: Sony Sports Network 

Australia: beIN Sports.

Nigeria: SuperSports.

Score Prediction: Copenhagen 1-2 Chelsea

Prediction

Chelsea’s firepower and European experience make them favorites, but Copenhagen’s solid home form suggests they won’t go down without a fight.

The visitors should have just enough quality to take a narrow first-leg advantage.