Chelsea vs. KAA Gent: UEFA Conference League Preview, Team News, and How to Watch
On Thursday, October 3, 2024, Chelsea will host KAA Gent at Stamford Bridge in their inaugural match of the UEFA Conference League. This encounter marks the beginning of Chelsea's first-ever campaign in the Conference League, a competition that has undergone significant format changes this season.
Match Details and How to Watch
The match between Chelsea and KAA Gent is scheduled to kick off at 8 PM BST. Fans can watch the game live on TNT Sports 2, with coverage starting at 7:45 PM. For those preferring to stream, the match will be available via the discovery+ Premium monthly pass, which also includes access to other sports events such as the Premier League, UEFA Champions League, and more.
In addition to TV and streaming options, the match can also be listened to on talkSPORT 2, available on DAB radio, TV packages, and online via the talkSPORT website or app.
Team News and Form
Chelsea comes into this match on a high note after a thrilling 4-2 victory over Brighton & Hove Albion in the Premier League, thanks in large part to Cole Palmer's historic four-goal performance in the first half. However, Palmer, along with Wesley Fofana and Romeo Lavia, has been omitted from the Conference League squad to manage their workload throughout the season.
Enzo Maresca's side is expected to field a strong lineup, with goalkeeper Filip Jorgensen and players like Axel Disasi, Tosin Adarabioyo, and Mykhailo Mudryk likely to start. The team may also see appearances from youngsters Josh Acheampong and Tyrique George, who impressed in the recent Carabao Cup match against Barrow.
Opposition Analysis: KAA Gent
KAA Gent, known as the Buffalos, are having a strong start to the Belgian Pro League season, currently sitting third after nine games. They have a notable presence in the Belgian top flight since 1990 and reached the quarter-finals of the UEFA Conference League in the 2022/23 season. One player to watch is Andri Gudjohnsen, the 22-year-old son of former Chelsea player Eidur Gudjohnsen, who has already scored two goals this season.
Gent's recent performances suggest they are vulnerable to quick counter-attacks, a tactic that Chelsea could exploit given their success in using such strategies against Brighton.
UEFA Conference League Format
The UEFA Conference League has introduced a new format this season, replacing the traditional group stages with a league phase. In this phase, teams will play eight gamesfour at home and four away. The top eight teams will automatically qualify for the round of 16, while teams placed 9th to 24th will enter a two-legged play-off to join them. The rankings will be determined by points, followed by goal difference, goals scored, away goals scored, number of wins, and number of away wins.
Chelsea, as one of the favorites to win the competition, will aim to start strongly and build momentum throughout the league phase. Their historical performance at home in European competitions is promising, having lost only two of their last 12 European games at Stamford Bridge, both to Real Madrid.
With the minimal rest time between this match and their upcoming Premier League clash against Nottingham Forest, Chelsea will need to balance their squad to ensure optimal performance in both competitions.
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