2024-25 UEFA Conference League Semi-Finals: First Leg – Djurgarden vs Chelsea

Djurgarden face Chelsea in the first leg of their 2024-25 UEFA Conference League semi-final.

Djurgarden came from behind to eliminate Rapid Wien in their Quarter-Final tie, whilst Chelsea survived a second-leg defeat to see off Legia Warsaw to secure their spot in this semi-final.

 

Team News

Djurgarden could welcome goalkeeper, Jacob Rinne back from illness which saw them miss their league win over Oster.

Oskar Fallenius and Nino Zugelj (both unspecified) are doubts but Patric Aslund, Malkolm Nilsson Safqvist and Rasmus Schuller are ruled out with various injuries.

Chelsea could welcome defender, Malo Gusto back into contention following his recovery from a muscle injury.

Robert Sanchez and Christoph Nkunku have both been left back in London due to knocks in their home win over Everton.

Wesley Fofana (muscle), Mykhailo Mudryk (suspension), Marc Guiu and Omari Kellyman (both hamstring) are still sidelined.

 

When is Kick-Off?

Djurgarden host Chelsea at 3Arena on Thursday 1 May at 9pm CEST (8pm UK Time) live on TNT Sports 3 in the UK.

 

Stat Attack

• This is Djurgarden’s first-ever meeting against Chelsea in all UEFA competitions.
• Chelsea are making their first competitive visit to 3Arena across any UEFA competition.
• Djurgarden have kept just one clean sheet in their last five home games in this competition (W3, L2).
• Chelsea are yet to lose away to Swedish opposition in all competitions (W2, D2).

 

Prediction

Having lost both of the first legs by 1-0 results in the last two rounds before bouncing back in the return legs, Djurgarden absolutely have to be more clinical and try to get at least a draw if want any chance of reaching the final as this game will be a huge step up in quality on their previous opposition.

Chelsea meanwhile weren’t exactly firing on all cylinders against Everton with little attacking creativity for all of their dominance, yet their defence and Sanchez spared their blushes so a massive improvement is required if they want to put a place in the final into their own hands in the home leg.

I however do feel that Chelsea will ultimately have too much quality for Djurgarden if they turn up with a more mature performance, which will make the return leg easier for them.

Prediction: Djurgarden 0-2 Chelsea

Result: Djurgarden 1-4 Chelsea