Chelsea heads to Denmark to take on FC Copenhagen in the first leg of the Europa Conference League Round of 16, and excitement is building. Chelsea was dominant in the group stages, but Copenhagen’s home record is a big obstacle. The Blues will look to take their excellent European form into this knockout tie, while the Danes will look to utilise their home advantage and their good run at Parken Stadium.
Team News and Tactics
- FC Copenhagen: Manager Jacob Neestrup has problems with key attackers Andreas Cornelius and Roony Bardghji due to fitness issues. Jordan Larsson is out until mid-April, so they’re missing some attacking options. But they’ll still play 4-2-3-1 with Giorgi Gocholeishvili, Mohamed Elyounoussi and Elias Achouri supporting Amin Chiakha. William Clem and Victor Froholdt will be the midfield pivots, while the defence will be Kevin Diks, Munashe Garananga, Gabriel Pereira and Birger Meling, with Diant Ramaj in goal.
- Chelsea: Chelsea has their own injury problems with Benoit Badiashile, Trevoh Chalobah and young goalkeeper Gabriel Slonina out. Nicolas Jackson and Noni Madueke are also out, so Enzo Maresca will have to rethink his attack. Chelsea will play 4-2-3-1 with Pedro Neto potentially leading the line, with Jadon Sancho and Christopher Nkunku on the flanks. Moises Caicedo and Enzo Fernandez will be key in midfield. Defence will be Tosin Adarabioyo and Levi Colwill, with Filip Jorgensen in goal.
Key Stats and History
- Chelsea’s Domination: Chelsea was the only team to win all six games in the Conference League group stages and scored 26 goals.
- Copenhagen’s Home Form: Copenhagen have lost just one of their last nine games at home in all competitions; six of those wins were against European opponents.
- Chelsea’s Away Blues: The Blues have lost their last four away games and conceded 10 goals.* Previous Meetings: Chelsea and Copenhagen have met in the 2011 Champions League Round of 16, and Chelsea won 2-0 on aggregate.
- Set-Piece Hazard: Copenhagen have scored 7 of their last 10 European goals from set-pieces, an area where Chelsea is vulnerable.
Player to Watch
Cole Palmer: Despite his recent ups and downs, Cole Palmer is still a key player for Chelsea. He’ll play as No.10, and his vision, dribbling, and finishing will be the key to opening up Copenhagen’s defence. His set-piece delivery will also be important, given Copenhagen’s height.
Copenhagen vs Chelsea Prediction
Given the team news, tactics and history, a tight game is expected.
FC Copenhagen 1-1 Chelsea
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