FC Copenhagen vs Chelsea: Tactical Analysis & Match Report (1-2)

Chelsea secured a 2-1 win over FC Copenhagen in the first leg of the Conference League Round of 16. Despite a lackluster first half, the Blues showed improved intensity after the break, with goals from Reece James and Enzo Fernández. This tactical analysis article highlights Chelsea's possession and pressing strategies, as well as Copenhagen defensive adjustments.
Patrik Lundin/GettyImages
3 of 5

Half-Space and Wings Access

Now, let’s look at Chelsea’s primary attacking opportunity versus Copenhagen's out-of-possession structure — access into the half-spaces and wide areas.

While the Blues had an easy route to access the half-spaces, they lacked a true 1v1 threat on the left, as Gusto was playing as an advanced left-back. Being left-footed, Gusto struggled to either cut in and create or deliver out-swinging crosses.

On the right, George posed a more evident 1v1 threat, but without a box-dominant striker to aim for, those crosses often went to waste. As previously mentioned, Chelsea did manage to access the half-spaces and deliver crosses from this zone, but the same issue of lacking a true target man persisted.