Europa League
Chelsea Waltz Into The Knockout Stage
Chelsea walked into Budapest for the last game of group play with first place all wrapped up in preparation for the knockout stage. Such a cushion allows the eighteen year olds Ethan Ampadu and Callum Hudson-Odoi to get the starts. Coming off a big win in the league this past weekend, the blues look to settle the ship in today’s game.
Chelsea Riding High
Sarri’s ten changes to his side gave the kind of mindset he was going into today’s match with. Emerson and Davide Zappacosta’s high play on the flanks keep Vidi’s offense pinned in their own half. Vidi’s best chances would come from counter attacks from the likes of Nego. The lone survivor from the Manchester City game, Willian, would draw a free kick after a dashing run leading to the top of the box. The Brazilian would finish the job with a beautiful free kick that ends up in the back of the net.
Vidi’s resilience was clear when they immediately responded with a counter attack that lead to a corner. Chelsea’s efforts to clear their lines ends with an unfortunate own goal that comes off the youngster Ethan Ampadu. In the closing minutes of the half, Alvaro Morata would pick up an injury that would see him out of the game.
Grounded Momentum
Intentions for each team for this game are at complete opposite ends of the spectrum. Chelsea were in cruise control while Vidi were playing with hopes of sneaking into the second qualifying spot for the group. Vidi would see their luck change in the 56th minute when Nego would net a ferocious volley from the back post. At the moment, Vidi would see themselves securing that second place spot in the group and advancing into the next round. Hudson-Odoi’s inspirational play on the flanks began showing the vulnerability in Vidi’s defense. The home side would see their knockout stage round dreams come to halt at the foot of Olivier Giroud. The Frenchman would hit a superb free-kick from 20 yards out over the wall and over a defender standing on the goal-line as the last defense. Chelsea would see out the result and waltz their way into the next round.
Locking In
The blues were looking to finish perfect in the group with six wins. As a result, a 2-2 draw would see the blues still topping their group with room to spare. Allowing their starters to rest after a battle with Manchester City, the blues would continue today a good day. Chelsea will have to wrestle with three matches in eight days. The blues will look forward to continue their winning form in both the Premier League and the EFL Cup.
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