Blues dominate from start to finish, shine with Jackson, Sancho, and Madueke, and put one foot in the European tournament final
English supremacy in Sweden
Chelsea took a giant step toward the UEFA Conference League final by defeating Sweden’s Djurgården 4–1 away in Stockholm in the first leg of the semifinal. The goals for the English side came from Jadon Sancho, Noni Madueke, and Nicolas Jackson (twice), while striker Isak Mulugeta pulled one back for the hosts. Enzo Maresca’s team displayed technical, physical, and tactical dominance and can now afford to lose by two goals in the second leg at Stamford Bridge and still qualify.
First Half: High pressing, width, and total control
Chelsea started the game with a clear strategy: to press the opponent hard from the opening minutes. Playing with a high line and using the width of the field, the London side completely neutralized Djurgården’s buildup, which barely crossed midfield. In the 12th minute, Jadon Sancho scored after a quick triangle play on the right flank. His shot deflected off Danielsson, leaving goalkeeper Jacob Widell Zetterström with no chance. Chelsea’s dominance intensified with over 65% possession, seven shots, and a 93% passing accuracy in the first half. The second goal came in the 37th minute, with Madueke taking advantage of space between the Swedish center-backs after a precise assist from Enzo Fernández.
Second Half: Key substitutions and a built-up rout
At halftime, Maresca rested Palmer and Sterling, bringing on Nicolas Jackson and Gallagher. The change had immediate impact. Jackson, in good form, scored twice between the 51st and 65th minutes, capitalizing on poor defending by the Swedish backline. The first came after a solo effort following a mistake in Djurgården’s buildup; the second, a rebound inside the box. Backed by the home crowd, Djurgården responded in the 68th minute, with Mulugeta rising above Cucurella to head home after a cross from the left. Despite the goal, Chelsea remained in control, smartly managing possession and cooling the game down.
Near-certain qualification
With the 4–1 win, Chelsea has all but secured a spot in the final. The Swedish side would need to win by four goals at Stamford Bridge a highly unlikely feat given the gulf in quality. The commanding lead allows the Blues’ coach to rest key players in the second leg as he turns attention to the Premier League run-in. As for Djurgården, they will need an above-average performance and a much more aggressive approach from the start if they hope to be competitive.
English width and pressing vs. low block and disorganization
Tactically, Chelsea showed a modern game plan: they used the flanks effectively through Madueke and Chilwell, supported centrally by Enzo and Gallagher. The team attacked in a 3-2-5 structure, with Cucurella joining the midfield line to facilitate buildup. On defense, they dropped into a mid-block with aggressive transitions. Djurgården opted for a defensive 4-4-2, aiming for long counterattacks with Mulugeta. However, they failed to escape Chelsea’s pressure, were poor in space management, and lacked the physical intensity to compete.
Jackson decisive, Enzo the conductor, Mulugeta fights alone
- Nicolas Jackson: Came on at halftime and was decisive, scoring two goals, taking six shots, and completing 91% of his offensive passes. Won 71% of his physical duels, showing strong presence in the box.
- Enzo Fernández: Dominated the midfield with 98% passing accuracy, one assist, four tackles, and eight recoveries. Dictated the tempo and orchestrated the buildup.
- Noni Madueke: One of his best performances in a Chelsea shirt. Scored a goal, created two chances, and completed key dribbles down the right wing.
- Isak Mulugeta: Isolated up front but still managed to score a beautiful header. Won five aerial duels and created the team’s only two real chances.
First-ever meeting between English and Swedish sides
This was the first official match between Chelsea and Djurgården in European competitions. Despite national relevance, the Swedish club has little experience in the latter stages of continental tournaments. Chelsea, a two-time European champion, is playing in the Conference League for the first time after an inconsistent season. The difference in pedigree and budget (Chelsea valued at over €1 billion compared to the Swedes’ under €20 million) was clear on the field.
Next Fixtures: Focus shifts to domestic battles
- Chelsea: Will face Liverpool on Sunday in a crucial Premier League clash for a Champions League spot. Then they host Djurgården on May 8.
- Djurgården: Travel to face AIK in the Stockholm derby in the Swedish league. Coach Kim Bergstrand is expected to rest key players ahead of the return leg in England.
The 4–1 away win was not just a commanding result but a show of Chelsea’s collective strength. The team displayed a modern, organized, fast, and efficient game. Nicolas Jackson, Enzo Fernández, and Madueke were the cornerstones of a near flawless performance. Djurgården, limited in quality, couldn’t cope. With this performance, the Blues reaffirm their status as one of the favorites and signal they are not only aiming for the final they want to lift the Conference League trophy. A European title could be the redemption of a turbulent season.
