London – Chelsea, a European giant with eight continental trophies, returns to the UEFA Conference League after a year’s absence
However, their path to the group stage requires a two-legged play-off against Swiss side Servette, starting with the first leg at Stamford Bridge tonight (8 pm Nigerian time).
This is Chelsea’s third play-off under UEFA rules, with previous encounters in the Champions League ending in success. Meanwhile, Servette, who recently lost a Europa League play-off to Braga, faces the threat of elimination from two UEFA competitions within weeks.
Servette’s best European run saw them reach the Cup Winners’ Cup quarter-finals in 1978/79. Their last meeting with an English side was a 6-2 aggregate loss to Derby County 50 years ago.
Chelsea, boosted by the return of attacker Joao Felix, boasts a strong home record in Europe, winning 10 and drawing three of their last 15 matches at Stamford Bridge.
The match marks the European debut for Chelsea’s new head coach, Enzo Maresca, who played a crucial role in Manchester City’s Champions League triumph last season. However, the Blues will be without Reece James and Wesley Fofana, with Maresca opting to rest the latter. New signings and late-returning internationals are nearing full fitness, with Pedro Neto expected to feature.
The second leg takes place in Geneva next Thursday, with the Conference League group stage draw scheduled for August 30th. The final is set for May 28, 2025, in Wrocław, Poland, with the winner earning a Europa League spot for the following season.
Historically, Chelsea and Servette have met twice before, both in Geneva shortly after World War II. Chelsea won the first encounter 2-0 in 1946, while Servette claimed a 1-0 victory in 1954.
Chelsea has faced Swiss opposition six times in Europe, including matches against Basel and St. Gallen.
