Chelsea has confidently booked their spot in the UEFA Conference League Round of 16 with a decisive 3-1 victory over Astana.
Despite the freezing temperatures in Kazakhstan, the Blues demonstrated composure, dominance, and attacking flair, securing their fifth win from five group-stage games.
Early brilliance from Marc Guiu and a powerful Renato Veiga header paved the way, ensuring safe passage to the knockout stages with ease.
Chelsea wasted no time taking control of the match. Just four minutes in, Tyrique George’s creative play opened up a chance, with Guiu seizing the opportunity to net his first goal with an impressive solo effort.
His second goal came only minutes later, capitalizing on Pedro Neto’s pace and precision with a clinical finish from close range.
Guiu’s quick brace rattled the Astana defense, leaving the home team struggling to find their footing in the game.
Chelsea’s dominance continued as Renato Veiga added to the tally in the 36th minute. Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall delivered an expertly placed corner, which Veiga met with a powerful header, leaving the Astana goalkeeper helpless.
Astana managed a brief comeback moment just before the break, as Marin Tomasov curled a spectacular strike past Filip Jorgensen. The goal gave the Kazakh side something to cheer for, but it was only a small dent in Chelsea’s otherwise commanding first-half performance.
Chelsea’s head coach, Enzo Maresca, took full advantage of the comfortable lead by introducing several Academy players.
Ato Ampah, Shumaira Mheuka, and Kiano Dyer made their senior debuts, bringing fresh energy to the side. Meanwhile, full debutant Samuel Rak-Sakyi and Josh Acheampong impressed with their confident displays from the start.
The bench, one of the youngest in Chelsea’s history, highlighted the club’s commitment to nurturing homegrown talent while balancing competitive success.
The Almaty Ortalyk Stadion’s subfreezing temperatures were no match for Chelsea’s focus and energy. Pedro Neto, the only player retained in the starting XI from the previous match, was a constant threat on the right wing, showcasing his speed and precision.
Neto’s efforts, combined with Guiu’s sharp finishing, ensured the Blues remained in full control throughout the match.
This victory marked Chelsea’s fifth consecutive win in the UEFA Conference League’s group phase, an impressive achievement that reinforces their position as strong contenders in the competition. With 15 points from five games, the Blues have cemented their place as group leaders.
