Djurgaarden

vs

20:00:00

Chelsea

Conference League Match Preview: Djurgården vs. Chelsea - Lineups

The 3Arena is set to be a vibrant hub of excitement as Djurgården prepares to face Chelsea in the first leg of the Europa Conference League semi-finals. This match promises to be a thrilling encounter, with the Swedish side looking to make a significant impact against a formidable opponent from the Premier League. Djurgården has shown resilience and determination in their journey to this stage, having successfully navigated past Rapid Wien in the quarter-finals. However, they now face a daunting challenge as they take on a star-studded Chelsea team that boasts a wealth of talent and experience.

Despite the uphill battle ahead, Djurgården will be buoyed by the support of their passionate home fans, who are expected to fill the arena to capacity. The team will be without Nino Zugelj and Oskar Fallenius, both of whom are currently sidelined due to injuries. However, the absence of suspended players means that Djurgården can field a competitive lineup, and they will be eager to showcase their skills on this prestigious stage. The players will need to dig deep and rise to the occasion if they hope to challenge Chelsea effectively.

On the other hand, Chelsea arrives in Dublin with a mix of confidence and determination. The Blues recently eliminated Legia in a double-header, although they experienced a surprising setback with a 2-1 loss at home. Nevertheless, their recent performances in the Premier League have been encouraging, and they appear to be finding their rhythm as the season progresses. Under the management of Enzo Maresca, Chelsea is expected to approach this match with a strong sense of purpose, aiming to secure a solid first-leg advantage in the semi-finals.

In terms of squad fitness, Chelsea will be without key players Marc Guiu and Wesley Fofana, both of whom are unavailable due to injuries. However, there is a silver lining for the Blues, as winger Jadon Sancho is pushing for a starting position after making a positive impact as a substitute in their recent 1-0 victory over Everton. Sancho's pace and creativity could prove crucial in breaking down Djurgården's defense and providing the attacking spark that Chelsea needs.

As the two teams prepare to clash, the stakes are high for both sides. Djurgården will be looking to leverage their home advantage and create an upset against a more established opponent, while Chelsea will aim to assert their dominance and secure a crucial away victory. The tactical battle between Maresca and Djurgården's manager will be intriguing, as both sides seek to impose their strategies and gain the upper hand in this knockout tie. Fans from both clubs will be eagerly anticipating what promises to be an exhilarating match filled with intensity, skill, and the relentless pursuit of success in the Europa Conference League.

Djurgardens IF possible starting lineup:
Rinne; Stahl, Une Larsson, Danielson, Kosugi; Stensson, Findell; Harala, Gulliksen, Nguen; Priske

Chelsea possible starting lineup:
Jorgensen; Acheampong, Adarabioyo, Badiashile, Cucurella; James, Dewsbury-Hall; George, Palmer, Sancho; Jackson