The UEFA Conference League’s league phase concluded this week, showcasing thrilling matches and setting the stage for the knockout rounds. Chelsea maintained their perfect record throughout the group stage, solidifying their position as heavy favorites for the title. The final matchday not only featured Chelsea’s dominating performance but also dramatic moments from teams like Hearts and Larne, who faced very different fates.
Chelsea capped off their league phase with a commanding 5-1 victory over Shamrock Rovers at Stamford Bridge. The match exhibited the depth of talent within Chelsea’s squad, featuring impressive performances from young striker Marc Guiu, who netted a hat trick. Manager Enzo Maresca has utilized rotation effectively this season, allowing younger players significant exposure to high-pressure European games. Despite Rovers pulling level at one point, Chelsea's firepower proved too much for the visitors.
With this win, Chelsea finished the league phase with six wins out of six, amassing 26 goals and conceding only five. After the match, pundit Joe Cole remarked on the team’s effectiveness, saying, “Chelsea have topped the league phase at a canter using largely a second team.” The team's ability to score freely raises questions about who can realistically challenge them as the tournament progresses.
Fiorentina, another key contender, finished third after managing to secure a late 1-1 draw against Vitória SC. Rolando Mandragora’s 87th-minute equalizer salvaged the day for the Italian side. Fiorentina’s resiliency was apparent, especially after two seasons of near misses where they reached the finals, only to be on the losing side.
Meanwhile, Hearts faced disappointment after being eliminated from the competition. The Scottish side looked set for advancement after turning around their matchup against Petrocub. After trailing initially, they took the lead through goals from Lawrence Shankland and teenager James Wilson. Yet, their hopes were dashed when they conceded a late penalty, leading to Victor Mudrac’s decisive goal, sealing Hearts’ fate. Captain Shankland expressed frustration, stating, “From the position we were leading 2-1, we should really win the game.”
For Larne, the tale was different as they recorded their first win of the season by defeating Gent 1-0. Tomas Cosgrove’s goal not only earned them three points but also marked the first win for any Irish Premiership side competing at this level. This victory provided the club with immense pride and financial reward, having avoided finishing at the bottom of their group.
Rapid Vienna and Real Betis also secured playoff spots, finishing strong to advance. Rapid grabbed the fourth position with a solid 3-0 win over Copenhagen. On the other hand, Real Betis ensured their continuation by narrowly defeating HJK Helsinki, with Johnny Cardoso scoring the only goal of the match.
The knockout phase will see teams like Cercle Brugge, Djurgården, and Legia Warszawa joining Chelsea, Fiorentina, and others as they battle it out for progression. The playoff matches will take place on February 13 and 20, 2025, setting the stage for intense competition.
Overall, the 2024/25 UEFA Conference League season has been intriguing, featuring impressive performances from teams also aiming for domestic glory. With the round of 16 matches on the horizon, fans are eager to see how the dynamics play out as the competition heats up. Several clubs, particularly Chelsea and Fiorentina, look poised to make deep runs, but surprises are certainly on the table as teams move forward.
