Chelsea’s Under 19’s secured a place in the final of the UEFA Youth League after a very convincing 4-0 victory of AS Roma. Despite going in 0-0 at half time, goals in quick succession from Colkett and two from Solanke left Roma with no response. As well as a late goal from Abraham. Chelsea dominated the game against the Italian side who beat Manchester City to reach the semi-finals. The Blue’s will now face Shakhtar Donestk in Monday’s final. Here are our four finding from the game in Nyon.
Brown invaluable in attack
The winger proved to be a vital asset in Chelsea’s attack today. Similarly to Chelsea’s last game against Tottenham, Brown would often be looked to as the outlet of the team. Nearly every attacking move Chelsea created during the first half, Brown was involved in. The winger had the beating of the Roma left backAnočić, and was often finding space. As well as this he was able to bring the overlapping Aina into the game on numerous occasions. The likes of Colkett and Salter continuously found the winger with precise diagonal passes. Brown consistently found a way to beat the defender and make space for an attempt on goal or try and find Solanke in the box. In the early moments of the second half, Brown proved his worth yet again as he drove into the Roma penalty area and found Charlie Colkett to put Chelsea in front.
Shadows of the first team
Many of Chelsea’s young stars have been training with the first team, as well as being involved with them across different competitions. Chelsea dictated large parts of the game, similarly to the first team. Roma were defending deep throughout the first half, despite this Chelsea remained calm on the ball and were patience in their build up play. Displaying traits similar to those of the first team, will only improve their knowledge and build their confidence as they look to make the set up to Jose Mourinho’s side. This is something that will not go unnoticed by Mourinho, it will make the difficult transition between youth teams and the first team that little bit easier.
Super Solanke
Before the ball had even been kicked in the semi-final, Solanke needed just the one goal to put him at the summit of the top goal scorers. As a result of Anderlecht’s elimination, Solanke could surpass Aaron Leya Iseka. His first goal and Chelsea’s second of the match did just that. Solanke was not finished there though, he went on to grab his eleventh of the competition and his second of the game. Both of Solanke’s goals were real poacher’s goals after Roma goalkeeper, Marchegiani did not cover himself in glory.
Dominant Blues
After such a convincing performance from Chelsea, the Blue’s go into Monday’s final against Shakhtar as favourites. The big score line against Roma did not flatter the Blues. The victory will be a massive confidence boost for the players as they prepare for the game. Shakhtar came from behind to beat Anderlecht 3-1 in their respective Semi Final. To have to opportunity to win a competition of this stature will be a great experience for some of the Chelsea players, something that will only build their confidence and aid their development.
