Standout performers: which Chelsea players impressed vs Gent

Chelsea kicked off their European campaign with a dominant 4-2 win over Gent at Stamford Bridge.

A second-string Chelsea XI controlled possession from the outset and deservedly took the lead in the 12th minute, thanks to Pedro Neto. The winger slotted the ball home after a neat layoff from the lively and hardworking Mykhailo Mudryk.

Chelsea continued to dominate the first half, but no further damage was done before the break. After the restart, a long ball from Disasi found Pedro Neto, who doubled Chelsea's advantage. Gent pulled one back after some slack defending by the Blues, momentarily bringing them back into the game.

However, Nkunku netted his seventh goal of the season, and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall added a fourth, putting the game well beyond Gent’s reach. Although the Belgian side managed a late goal through Omri Gandelman, it was too little, too late.

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

Here at Pride of London, we highlight the top three standout performers from this thrilling clash at Stamford Bridge.

Renato Veiga

Renato Veiga made his eighth appearance for Chelsea in all competitions this season after joining from FC Basel for £12 million in the summer. While his league appearances have mostly been off the bench, Veiga has been a key player in Chelsea’s cup campaigns.

He opened his goal-scoring account for the club with a beautifully struck header and later provided an assist for Christopher Nkunku, giving Chelsea a two-goal cushion in the second half.

The versatile Portuguese player linked up superbly with Mykhailo Mudryk on the left flank, and at times, inverted into midfield when Chelsea had possession, causing constant problems for the Belgian defense.

In the 62nd minute, Veiga used his strength in the area to hold off defenders before setting up Nkunku, who fired a well-placed shot into the net.

Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall

Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall played a key role in Chelsea's dominance of possession throughout the match and capped off his performance with a brilliantly taken goal, sealing the win and putting the game beyond Gent’s reach.

The former Leicester City midfielder, who scored 12 goals and provided 14 assists in the Championship last season, displayed his vision and creativity despite Gent’s attempts to pack the central areas in this encounter. His sharp play helped Chelsea break down Gent’s defensive lines, and he celebrated his first goal for the club on what will be an unforgettable night.

Although his league minutes have been limited since joining Chelsea, Dewsbury-Hall has featured heavily in cup competitions, and he’s eager to prove his worth to Maresca whenever given the opportunity.

João Félix

João Félix made his sixth appearance for Chelsea this season during their Europa Conference League clash against Gent at Stamford Bridge. While Mudryk caused havoc on the left and Pedro terrorized the right, it was Félix who masterfully linked the midfield to the attack. The former Atlético Madrid star was arguably the best player on the pitch, despite not scoring or providing an assist. His maturity and talent were on full display in the heart of Chelsea's offensive play.

Like many of his teammates in this encounter, Félix’s league minutes have been limited due to the presence and superb form of Jadon Sancho and Cole Palmer. Felix has played just 108 minutes in the league so far this season, but with his undeniable talent, he remains poised to prove his brilliance whenever given the chance.