Chelsea to Face Betis in Conference League Final After Beating Djurgarden

Chelsea booked their place in the UEFA Conference League final with a 1-0 win over Djurgarden on Thursday, completing a 5-1 aggregate victory. Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall scored the only goal of the second leg at Stamford Bridge late in the first half, sealing Chelsea’s spot in the final against Real Betis on May 28 in Wroclaw.

The win marked a milestone for 16-year-old Reggie Walsh, who became the youngest player to start a European match for Chelsea.

Chelsea have the chance to become the first club to win all three of UEFA’s current major trophies if they secure the Conference League title. The Blues haven’t claimed a major title since winning the 2021 Champions League but are heading into the final in strong form.

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“I’m very happy, the job is done tonight,” said Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca. “Now we have almost 20 days to prepare for the final, and hopefully we can win this trophy.”

Chelsea to Face Betis in Conference League Final After Beating Djurgarden.

Captain Reece James reflected on the team’s progress, saying, “We expect to win the competition, and winning it would be a huge achievement. We’re moving in the right direction and knocking on the door for Champions League qualification next season.”

Maresca made several changes to his lineup, resting players for Chelsea’s upcoming match against Newcastle, with Marc Cucurella the only starter retained from the Premier League win over Liverpool.

Dewsbury-Hall, along with Tyrique George, had early chances to score, but the midfielder’s goal in the 38th minute was the decisive moment. George delivered a perfect pass, allowing Dewsbury-Hall to beat the Djurgarden defense and finish into the bottom corner.

Despite Chelsea controlling the match, Dewsbury-Hall had another opportunity to extend the lead, heading a cross from Malo Gusto straight at goalkeeper Jacob Rinne. Djurgarden struggled to create chances, with only a long-range shot from Daniel Stensson forcing a save from Chelsea’s Filip Jorgensen.

Chelsea will now face Betis in the final after the Spanish side triumphed over Fiorentina in a thrilling 4-3 aggregate win. Betis secured their place in their first-ever European final with a 2-2 draw after extra time in Italy.

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