Chelsea Advance to Europa Conference League Group Stage Despite Defeat

Chelsea secured their place in the league phase of the Europa Conference League despite a 3-2 defeat at Servette in the second leg of their qualifying play-off.

The Blues, led by Enzo Maresca, took a commanding 2-0 lead from the first leg at Stamford Bridge and extended their advantage early in the second leg. Christopher Nkunku converted a penalty in the 14th minute after Mykhailo Mudryk was fouled by Keigo Tsunemoto.

Servette responded with a goal from Jeremy Guillemenot, who finished first time from Dereck Kutesa’s pass, and then took the lead on the night through two substitutes. Enzo Crivelli headed in Miroslav Stevanovic’s left-wing cross to give the Swiss side a 2-1 advantage.

Despite the pressure from Servette, Chelsea held firm and managed to see out the match. With a 3-2 aggregate victory, they progressed to the group stage of the competition.