Key takeaways for Chelsea after win vs Heidenheim

The excitement in the newly refurbished Europa Conference League continues as a dominant Chelsea side swept past FC Heidenheim. The German team put up a spirited performance but was ultimately overpowered by a talented Chelsea squad still finding its rhythm under Maresca.

Both teams started brightly, with both goalkeepers being called into action within the first quarter of an hour. Chelsea striker Marc Guiu squandered three good opportunities to put the Blues ahead. Despite the fireworks from both sides, the game remained goalless at halftime.

The deadlock was broken in the 51st minute when the lively Jadon Sancho found Christopher Nkunku in the box, who calmly slotted the ball home. Heidenheim pushed to get back into the game, but their hopes were dashed when Mykhaylo Mudryk doubled Chelsea's lead following another excellent assist from the former Manchester United winger, Sancho.

Despite Heidenheim's occasional spells of possession in the latter stages, it was a comfortable evening for Chelsea—even without the attacking presence of Cole Palmer, Noni Madueke, and Nicolas Jackson.

Here at The Pride of London, we delve into the key takeaways from Chelsea's convincing win over Heidenheim.

Chelsea is a level above the Europa Conference league

Chelsea have been dominant in the newly formed Europa Conference League, winning four straight games, scoring an impressive 18 goals, and conceding only three. They currently sit atop the league table and are one of only two teams yet to drop a point.

While their match against Heidenheim has been their toughest test so far, the Blues have maintained control over all their opponents. Chelsea’s participation in the league phase feels more like a formality, as their quality clearly outshines the competition. The real challenge will begin after the league phase, but even then, it’s hard to bet against Chelsea lifting the trophy in May 2025.

Chelsea have reliable Backup in Filip Jörgensen

Chelsea’s perfect start in the Europa Conference League can partly be attributed to the excellent performances of goalkeeper Filip Jörgensen. The young shot-stopper was called into action several times during this encounter at the Voith-Arena in Germany. Notably, Jörgensen produced two outstanding saves in the 68th minute to preserve Chelsea’s lead.

So far, he has kept two clean sheets in four outings during the league phase. Based on his strong performances this season, Jörgensen looks ready to step up and take on the challenge if called upon to play in the Premier League.

Chelsea’s Attack Remains Solid Despite Missed Opportunities

Even without key players like Palmer, Madueke, and Jackson, Chelsea continue to create chances and score goals. They repeatedly carved open the Heidenheim defense but failed to add to their two-goal tally due to some missed opportunities. Marc Guiu, in particular, could have had at least a brace, while Nkunku was also guilty of spurning a few chances, including a one-on-one in the second half.

Despite this, Nkunku managed to get on the scoresheet and has now scored in every Europa Conference League match this season. With 11 goals, he is Chelsea’s top scorer for the campaign. With Jackson accumulating four yellow cards and facing a potential suspension, Nkunku is more than capable of stepping up to play a leading role in the league.

With eight Premier League matches to come between now and early January, Chelsea are well-placed to challenge for a top-four spot—or even a title push. The team is improving with every game, and there’s plenty more to come from this exciting squad.

Up next for Chelsea is the visit of Aston Villa to Stamford Bridge on Sunday afternoon.