Chelsea squashed hosts Panathinaikos with a decisive 4-1 victory while playing away in the UEFA Conference League.
It was all Panathinaikos during the first five minutes, Chelsea controlled the game for the remaining 85 minutes and stoppage time.
The hosts played their first home match since George Baldock’s passing at the age of 31 on October 9.
Before the match began, Panathinaikos players warmed up in shirts featuring Baldock’s squad number, 32, while Chelsea players displayed a shirt with his name and number as well. Fans from both teams held up placards showing the number 32 in tribute.
David Bowie’s “Starman” echoed through the PA system, honouring the former Sheffield United player’s nickname.
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Photo Credit: Getty Images
Chelsea’s visiting manager, Enzo Maresca, made 11 changes to his lineup for the game. It took some time for Chelsea to find their rhythm, but they eventually broke through with a well-executed counterattack, as Felix connected with Mykhailo Mudryk for a one-two before scoring from close range.
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Mudryk extended the lead to 2-0 shortly after the second half began, heading in a cross from Pedro Neto for his first goal of the season. The Ukrainian forward then assisted Felix for his second goal, which took a deflection on its way into the net.
Christopher Nkunku capped off Chelsea’s comfortable victory by converting a penalty after Daniel Mancini committed a foul.
Facundo Pellistri, a former Manchester United midfielder, scored a consolation goal for the hosts, but it was ultimately a straightforward win for Chelsea, who maintained their perfect record in the league phase with four wins.
