Chelsea secured a narrow 2-1 victory against FC Copenhagen in the first leg of their UEFA Conference League round of 16 clash at Telia Parken. The Blues initially struggled to find their rhythm in the first half, managing only two shots on goal before a tactical shake-up at halftime changed the course of the match. Reece James ignited Chelsea's offense just 56 seconds into the second half, delivering a precise shot into the bottom corner to give his team the lead.

The momentum shifted significantly in Chelsea's favor after the break, and Enzo Fernandez doubled their advantage in the 65th minute with a stunning strike that curled into the top corner. Despite Chelsea's apparent control over the match, FC Copenhagen responded with a late goal from Gabriel Pereira, who headed home a free-kick in the 79th minute. This late goal kept the tie alive, providing the Danish side with hope heading into the second leg at Stamford Bridge.

Chelsea's performance was a mix of promise and inconsistency, showcasing their potential but also revealing areas for improvement. Manager Enzo Maresca highlighted the importance of Reece James as a versatile player and leader for the team, noting that he envisions James taking on a more central role in the future. As Chelsea prepares for the return leg, they will aim to build on their first-leg advantage while addressing the defensive lapses that allowed Copenhagen to score late in the match.