With each passing result, Enzo Maresca is gradually restoring faith at Chelsea. Even as his team comfortably secured their fifth consecutive victory across all competitions against Gent, the Italian was seen pacing the touchline, issuing commands. In a club where clarity has often been elusive, Maresca's direct approach appears to be yielding positive outcomes. Goals from Pedro Neto, Christopher Nkunku, and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall in the second half sealed the deal for Chelsea, after Renato Veiga's initial strike. However, the absence of Cole Palmer, who scored four goals in their previous match, showcased Chelsea's depth. If they commit fully to the Conference League, it will be challenging for any team to prevent them from becoming the first to win all European trophies. Despite making 11 changes from their Brighton victory, Maresca fielded a forward line that cost Chelsea £200m. According to TransferRoom, their squad's value is on par with the other 35 clubs in the Conference League, making them heavy favorites to reach the final in Wrocław.
Gent, who have participated in every edition of this tournament since its inception in 2021, were last year's semifinalists, losing to eventual winners West Ham. They qualified for this stage after finishing seventh in the Belgian league and fielded two players with notable family connections. Eidur Gudjohnsen watched from the stands as his son, Andri, faced his former club, while Noah Fadiga, son of ex-Bolton and Senegal winger Khalilou Fadiga, supported him in attack. Despite the absence of Palmer and others, Chelsea quickly took the lead through Neto and Mykhailo Mudryk. Gent had their moments, but Chelsea's dominance was evident, with goals from Neto, Nkunku, and Dewsbury-Hall ensuring the victory.
