Chelsea‘s decisive 3–0 victory over Legia Warsaw on the road in the first leg of their quarterfinal match was a major step toward the UEFA Europa Conference League semi-finals.
The Blues found their rhythm early in the second half after a drab first half. Tyrique George, a 19-year-old academy graduate, broke the tie in the 49th minute by scoring his first senior goal for the team after quickly grabbing a rebound from a long-range effort by Reece James.
Cole Palmer was replaced at halftime by substitute Noni Madueke, who made an instant impression. In the 57th minute, he completed a skillfully planned move that involved Reece James and Jadon Sancho, doubling Chelsea’s lead. Shortly after Christopher Nkunku missed a penalty, Madueke added his second goal, tapping in another Sancho assist to make the score 3-0.
It was crucial that head coach Enzo Maresca substitute Palmer and Tosin Adarabioyo at halftime. Chelsea’s attack was reenergized with the addition of Madueke and the moving of George to a key position. Maresca also highlighted the depth of talent coming out of the club’s academy by praising 18-year-old Josh Acheampong for his calm performance at right-back.
Chelsea is in a strong position going into the second leg at Stamford Bridge on April 17 with a three-goal lead. Maresca may be able to rotate his team due to the comfortable margin, which would keep important players fresh for future Premier League games.
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