Five important things we learned from Chelsea’s 2-0 victory against Heidenheim in the Conference League
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Chelsea maintained their flawless record in the Conference League group stage with a commanding 2-0 win against Heidenheim in Germany. This victory keeps the Blues at the top of their group, boasting four wins from four matches.
The match, packed with end-to-end action, saw Christopher Nkunku and Mykhailo Mudryk deliver decisive second-half goals to secure the three points. Here are five standout takeaways from the impressive midweek performance:
1. Filip Jørgensen Is Ready for the Premier League
Chelsea’s 22-year-old goalkeeper Filip Jørgensen was the standout player of the night, delivering a performance brimming with composure and shot-stopping brilliance.
While Robert Sánchez has struggled with inconsistency in the Premier League, Jørgensen continues to excel in cup competitions. Pundit Peter Crouch suggested that Jørgensen deserves to take over as Chelsea’s first-choice keeper, calling his midweek display “masterclass material.” It’s clear Jørgensen is making a strong case for himself in the race for the No. 1 spot.
2. Jadon Sancho Proves His Value
After a spell on the sidelines due to injury and illness, Jadon Sancho returned to the starting XI and made an immediate impact. The 24-year-old winger showed why he’s such a valuable asset, using his pace, creativity, and directness to torment Heidenheim’s defense.
Sancho played a critical role in both goals, assisting Mudryk’s strike with a clever cutback and creating space for Nkunku’s opener. His performance could prompt manager Enzo Maresca to reconsider his starting options in the league, potentially at Noni Madueke’s expense.
3. Axel Disasi Struggles in Defense
Axel Disasi, handed the captain’s armband for the night, had a forgettable performance. The 26-year-old, deployed at right-back, struggled to adapt to the position and made several mistakes that left fans frustrated.
Despite his leadership role, Disasi failed to assert himself, and his standing in the defensive pecking order appears to be slipping further. With a crowded roster of center-backs, he needs to find his form quickly to avoid being overshadowed.
4. Christopher Nkunku: The Clinical Finisher
Nkunku continues to underline his reputation as Chelsea’s most reliable goal scorer this season. His brilliantly executed close-range strike against Heidenheim brought his tally to 11 goals in 19 appearances across all competitions.
Fans are eager to see Nkunku take on a bigger role in the Premier League, especially given his lethal finishing. While he’s been used sparingly in league matches so far, his consistent performances suggest it’s only a matter of time before he becomes a regular starter.
5. Marc Guiu Needs a Loan
Starting as the lone striker, 18-year-old Marc Guiu showed flashes of promise but lacked the polish needed to make a significant impact. Despite attempting six shots during his hour on the pitch, his end product fell short.
A loan move could be the ideal solution for Guiu’s development, giving him regular first-team minutes to refine his skills and build confidence. Chelsea may look to facilitate this during the January transfer window.
Conclusion
Chelsea’s victory against Heidenheim showcased their depth and resilience. With standout performances from Nkunku, Sancho, and Jørgensen, the Blues continue to build momentum in the Conference League. While some areas, such as Disasi’s form and Guiu’s finishing, require attention, the team looks poised to make a deep run in Europe this season.