Article
Preview: Chelsea vs. Djurgardens IF - prediction, team news, lineups
May 07, 2025
Chelsea return to Stamford Bridge with one foot firmly in the UEFA Conference League final after a dominant 4-1 first-leg victory over Djurgardens IF in Sweden. With a final showdown in Wroclaw against either Real Betis or Fiorentina awaiting, Enzo Maresca’s men are heavy favourites to finish the job on Thursday night.
TEAM NEWS

Enzo Maresca is expected to rotate his squad, balancing the need to protect key players ahead of the weekend's Premier League clash with Newcastle. Youngsters Josh Acheampong, Tyrique George, and Shumaira Mheuka are all likely to feature, while Christopher Nkunku remains sidelined alongside Wesley Fofana and Marc Guiu. Romeo Lavia, recently fit again, is ineligible for the Conference League.


Djurgarden are dealing with a lengthy absentee list, including first-choice goalkeeper Filip Manojlovic and several unregistered or injured key players. Jacob Rinne will continue in goal, with Jani Honkavaara forced to rely on a depleted squad again, after naming just seven substitutes in the first leg.

Prediction

Chelsea 2-1 Djurgardens IF


While Chelsea are unlikely to dazzle, their superior depth and confidence should see them secure a routine win. Djurgardens have done remarkably to reach this stage, but with a stretched squad and an uphill battle ahead, even a consolation result in London looks beyond reach.