Chelsea vs Legia Warsaw Europa Conference League drama unfolded at Stamford Bridge as Chelsea secured a semi-final spot despite a 2-1 defeat in the second leg. A dominant 3-0 win in the first leg proved enough to see them through on a 4-2 aggregate.
The visitors struck early. Tomas Pekhart converted a 10th-minute penalty after goalkeeper Filip Jorgensen fouled him inside the box. Jorgensen guessed the right way but failed to stop the shot, letting the ball slip through his gloves.
Legia’s opener sparked wild celebrations from their away fans, who removed their shirts in jubilation. Chelsea responded before the break. Jadon Sancho drove a low cross into the box, and Marc Cucurella finished from close range.
Cucurella thought he had a second goal just before halftime. However, VAR ruled it out for offside. Chelsea went into the break level but needing more to settle the tie.
In the second half, Steve Kapuadi restored Legia’s lead with a powerful header in the 53rd minute. Despite Chelsea’s push for a response, they couldn’t find another goal.
The 3-0 win in Poland, though, carried them through. Chelsea now face Swedish side Djurgarden in the semi-finals. Djurgarden beat Rapid Vienna 4-1 after extra time, sealing a 4-2 aggregate win. Rapid finished with nine men after two red cards.
Winning the Conference League would guarantee Chelsea a Europa League spot next season. But they still have a chance to qualify for the Champions League by finishing in the Premier League’s top five.
Maresca’s team showed resilience despite the loss. The squad continues to grow, but defensive lapses remain a concern. Still, their European journey is alive, and the next few weeks could define their season.
