Brashna Kasi
Updated on: October 16, 2024 12:24 pm GMT
Excitement is mounting as Chelsea gears up for its first match in the UEFA Conference League group phase against KAA Gent. The game is set to take place on Thursday, October 3, 2024, at 20:00 BST (3 PM EDT) at Stamford Bridge, marking the beginning of a thrilling six-match journey in the tournament.
Match Overview
This match is particularly special, as it will be Chelsea’s 300th European match. The UEFA Conference League features 36 teams, with the top 8 advancing directly to the Round of 16. The next 16 will face off in an extra knockout round, while the bottom 8 will be eliminated from the tournament.
With hopes high for a victory, Chelsea is fielding a strong lineup. Coach Enzo Maresca is optimistic, mentioning that they are in great shape despite missing Reece James due to injury. This match will allow fans to see how well the squad has prepared.
Chelsea’s Lineup
The starting XI for Chelsea will follow a 4-2-3-1 formation:
- Goalkeeper: Filip Jorgensen
- Defenders: Veiga, Badiashile, Tosin, Disasi (captain)
- Midfielders: Dewsbury-Hall, Casadei
- Forwards: Mudryk, Félix, Neto, Nkunku
The substitutes will include players like Sánchez, Colwill, and Caicedo, providing depth to the squad as the match progresses.
Facing KAA Gent
On the other side, KAA Gent will also present a competitive lineup. Their starting XI includes:
- Goalkeeper: Roef
- Defenders: Brown, Watanabe, A.Gudjohnsen, Gambor
- Midfielders: S.Mitrovic (captain), Ito, Delorge, Surdez
- Forwards: Fadiga, Torunarigha
Andri Gudjohnsen, son of former Chelsea star Eidur, will make his mark by starting for Gent, adding an exciting storyline to the match.
How to Watch the Match
<pFans can tune in through various channels:
- UK: TNT Sports
- USA: Paramount+
- India: Sony TEN 5
- Nigeria: SuperSport MáXimo 3
For streaming, options include discovery+ in the UK and Paramount+ in the US.
Injury Update
<pEnzo Maresca has confirmed that Reece James is the only player officially ruled out for the match due to injury. Key players Cole Palmer, Wesley Fofana, Romeo Lavia, and Ben Chilwell have also been left out of the Conference League squad. Maresca reassured fans that they have a fit squad otherwise.
He stated, “We try to share minutes with all of them. In this moment, it looks like we have players playing in the Premier League and in the cup competitions, but it is not like this.” Maresca also expressed confidence in his team’s ability to perform well in this opening fixture.
Looking Ahead
As the match approaches, anticipation is building not just for the result, but for what this tournament means for Chelsea. Strong performances in group stages can pave the way for a deeper run into the tournament.
With tonight’s matchup, Chelsea aims to kick off its campaign with a win. Fans are hopeful and excited, knowing this is not just another game but a chance to solidify their standing in European football.
As the teams prepare to battle it out, it’s clear that both clubs will bring their strengths to the pitch. Chelsea must harness their skills and teamwork to secure a dominant performance as they embark on this new chapter in European competition.
Watch for the game highlights and updates after the match! Will Chelsea win and achieve their dream of becoming champions in Europe? We’ll find out on the field!
