Chelsea vs Shamrock Rovers: Europa Conference League Clash, Undefeated Records, and Key Updates
Chelsea face Shamrock Rovers in the UEFA Europa Conference League on Thursday night, with Stamford Bridge hosting its final group-stage game of the competition.
Officiating Team
An all-French team will oversee the match, with Willy Delajod as referee. Delajod will be assisted by Erwan Finjean and Philippe Jeanne, with Thomas Leonard as the fourth official. Bastien Dechepy and Jérémie Pignard will handle VAR duties.
Delajod is no stranger to high-pressure European fixtures, having officiated Tottenham’s 3-0 Europa League victory over Qarabag FK earlier this season. Known for a firm approach, Delajod averages 22.56 fouls and 4.11 yellow cards per match in Ligue 1 this season.
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Also read: Chelsea XI vs Shamrock Rovers: Team News, Predicted Lineup, and Injury Updates
Team Form
Chelsea have been dominant in the competition, winning all five group matches and scoring 21 goals while conceding just four. Meanwhile, Shamrock Rovers, based in Dublin, remain unbeaten, with three wins and two draws.
They are already guaranteed a playoff place, making history as the first Irish side to progress in European competition beyond Christmas.
Managerial Notes
- Stephen Bradley, Rovers’ manager, has recently been linked to the managerial vacancy at Millwall, adding extra intrigue to the match.
- Enzo Maresca, Chelsea’s head coach, emphasized the need for focus: “We are going to try and approach always in the same way. I watched four or five games; they are a good team with some good players… all the games are difficult. For sure, it will be another one where we try and win.”
Mudryk Suspension
Chelsea will be without Mykhailo Mudryk, who has been provisionally suspended after testing positive for a banned substance. Mudryk has denied any wrongdoing, and the club has expressed its support:
“The club, the coaching staff, and all of the people that are inside the training ground – we support and we trust Mykhailo,” said Maresca.
Key Facts
- Chelsea’s Record: 5 wins from 5, already qualified for the last 16.
- Shamrock Rovers’ Record: 3 wins, 2 draws; seeking a top-eight finish.
- Venue: Stamford Bridge, London
- Kick-Off Time: 8 PM GMT, Thursday, December 19, 2024
- Broadcast: TNT Sports
With Chelsea’s festive Premier League schedule looming, the game provides an opportunity to rotate the squad while maintaining their flawless European campaign.
Chelsea vs Shamrock Rovers: Europa Conference League Clash, Undefeated Records, and Key Updates
