Joao Felix’s Double Leads Chelsea to 4-1 Conference League Victory; Historic Win for TNS
Joao Felix Shines in Chelsea’s Conference League Triumph
Chelsea defeated Panathinaikos 4-1 in the UEFA Conference League thanks to an outstanding double from Joao Felix, who ended his goal slump. In the meantime, The New Saints (TNS), a Welsh team, achieved a historic feat in European football by defeating Astana 2-0.
Joao Felix, a Portugal international who recently returned to Chelsea from Atletico Madrid, scored two goals in this Conference League game to demonstrate his ability to score goals. Felix used this chance to make a statement even if he hasn’t yet appeared in Chelsea’s Premier League team under coach Enzo Maresca. His lone goal in seven games prior to this one came on August 25 against Wolves.
Felix’s first-half goal against Panathinaikos snapped his six-game goal drought, and he scored again after the interval. Chelsea put on a good show and won the competition for the second time in a row thanks to contributions from Mykhailo Mudryk and Christopher Nkunku.
“No matter how many players we change, the team identity remains clear,” said Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca, praising his squad’s unified identity. They once again demonstrated tonight that they are taking advantage of opportunities.
Panathinaikos paid tribute to their late defender, George Baldock, who unfortunately died in Athens earlier this month, prior to the game.
The New Saints defeated Kazakh club Astana 2-0, becoming the first Welsh team to win a European championship at the group stage. At New Meadow in Shrewsbury, Rory Holden’s header from a cross by Jordan Williams gave TNS the lead in the 40th minute. Following a handball by Islambek Kuat, Adam Wilson’s cross resulted in a penalty, which Declan McManus converted to complete the win in the 78th minute.
“Qualifying was special, and getting our first win at this stage is a dream come true,” said Craig Harrison, TNS manager, expressing his pride. We are capable of competing at this level and deserve to be here.
In other tournament action, Fiorentina, the Conference League finalists from the previous year, defeated St Gallen 4-2 after overcoming an early deficit. In the 23rd minute, Felix Mambimbi gave the Swiss team the lead, but Fiorentina rallied with goals from Robin Gosens, Jonathan Ikone, and Lucas Martinez.
Shamrock Rovers of the Republic of Ireland demonstrated their supremacy in this round by defeating Northern Ireland champions Larne 4-1 in Belfast.
This exciting matchday was a memorable evening in European football because it showcased Fiorentina’s tenacity, TNS’s historic moment, and Chelsea’s comeback in the Conference League.
