Chelsea Set for Europa Conference League Quarter-Final Clash Against Legia Warsaw
Chelsea will resume their UEFA Europa Conference League campaign on Thursday night, facing Polish side Legia Warsaw in a crucial quarter-final showdown.
The Blues enter the tie as strong contenders to lift the trophy, but their immediate focus is on overcoming a resilient Legia Warsaw outfit. The Polish club, currently fifth in their domestic league with 12 wins from 27 matches, presents a stern test despite Chelsea’s status as favourites.
This will be the first-ever meeting between the two clubs, adding an element of intrigue to the encounter. Beyond the tactical battle, Chelsea’s youthful squad must also adapt to the intense atmosphere expected at the Estadi de l’Exèrcit Polonès — a venue known for its passionate and vocal support.
Midfielder Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, who joined Chelsea in the summer, knows exactly what’s in store. Having faced Legia Warsaw with Leicester City in the 2021/22 Europa League — a match that ended in a narrow 1-0 defeat — he understands the challenge that lies ahead.
“I’ve already spoken to the lads and told them what they should expect,” Dewsbury-Hall said in a conversation with journalist Ben Jacobs. “The home support will definitely energize their players. It was a bit hostile, but in a positive sense — the kind of European night you don’t forget easily.”
Thursday’s match carries weight beyond just reaching the semi-finals. A win would bring Chelsea a step closer to European glory and ease some of the pressure currently surrounding manager Enzo Maresca. Lifting a trophy in his debut season at Stamford Bridge would significantly strengthen his position.
Dewsbury-Hall also highlighted a historic milestone on the horizon: Chelsea have the opportunity to become the first English club to win every major UEFA competition. That goal, he said, serves as powerful motivation for the team as they push forward in their European journey.