João Félix Shines as Chelsea Beat Panathinaikos 4-1

João Félix scored twice as Chelsea secured a 4-1 win over Panathinaikos in an emotional UEFA Conference League match where tributes were paid to former Panathinaikos defender George Baldock, who passed away at 31. Before kickoff, Panathinaikos players wore shirts bearing Baldock’s number 32 and Chelsea also honored him with a shirt displaying his name and number.

Fans from both sides held placards showing 32 and David Bowie’s “Starman,” Baldock’s nickname played over the stadium speakers. The hosts started energetically with Chelsea keeper Filip Jorgensen making an early save. However, Chelsea under manager Enzo Maresca who made 11 changes from their last game, soon found their rhythm.

Félix opened the scoring after a neat one-two with Mykhailo Mudryk. Mudryk then headed in Pedro Neto’s cross to make it 2-0 after the break and later provided another assist for Félix’s second goal which took a deflection. Christopher Nkunku added a fourth with a penalty after Daniel Mancini’s foul securing a dominant win for Chelsea. Facundo Pellistri scored a late consolation for Panathinaikos but the result was never in doubt.

Chelsea’s squad depth proved vital as Maresca rotated his lineup, offering fringe players like João Félix and Mudryk the chance to shine. Both players impressed with Félix netting twice and Mudryk contributing two assists. Their performances give Maresca selection dilemmas ahead of crucial Premier League fixtures against Newcastle and Manchester United.

Despite a narrow weekend defeat to Liverpool, Chelsea’s form has been strong with this victory maintaining their 100% record in the Conference League group stage. The result highlights the Blues’ ability to balance multiple competitions effectively.