Squawka / Features / Cole Palmer shines as the apprentice becomes the master

    Cole Palmer shines as the apprentice becomes the master

    Chelsea became the first European team to win every UEFA Competition, completing the set with their 4-1 victory over Real Betis to win the Conference League final.

    Enzo Maresca has got one over on his very first coaching mentor, beating Manuel Pellegrini in a game of two halves and delivering Chelsea their first trophy since 2021.

    The Blues’ lost the first half 1-0, keeping 66% possession of the ball but only managing four shots with one on target, creating zero “big chances”.

    But in the second half, Chelsea put four past Betis after Maresca made a few tweaks, creating four “big chances”, taking seven shots with six of those on target!

    Malo Gusto started the game at right-back, inverting into midfield alongside Caicedo to create their usual 3-2 base in build up.

    And it was a loose pass from the young fullback that gifted Betis their chance to strike, taking a 1-0 lead in the game and putting the Blues’ under early pressure.

    But Reece James entered the fray at half-time, replacing Gusto and adding more composure in that inverted role.

    In the second half, Chelsea held 66% possession (same as the first half), but had better control in midfield, sustaining pressure for longer periods and finding space between the lines.

    It was this sustained pressure and control in midfield that allowed Chelsea’s star man to get into his rhythm, taking the game by the scruff of the neck.

    Cole Palmer put two beautiful whipped balls into the box to assist both Enzo Fernandez and Nicolas Jackson, flipping the game on its head and putting the Blues’ 2-1 up.

    The 23-year-old was able to exploit the space being created from Chelsea controlling proceedings and using direct balls to stretch the Betis back line.

    Pellegrini’s backline dropped off to deal with these long passes, creating a drift between the defensive and midfield line.

    From here, Palmer was able to begin to dictate, completing four of his six dribble attempts, making two key passes and creating two “big chances” which led to his two assists.

    We then saw that more experienced side of Chelsea come out after taking a 2-1 lead, controlling the game and picking their moments.

    An 83rd minute goal from Jadon Sancho sealed things for the Blues’, with a Moises Caicedo goal set up from Enzo Fernandez putting the cherry on top.

    Chelsea will now be looking ahead to the FIFA Club World Cup having won their first trophy under the new ownership, knowing they will be playing Champions League football next season.

    More Champions League content (18+ only, Ts&Cs apply):