In an electrifying UEFA Champions League clash at Stamford Bridge on Wednesday night, Chelsea emphatically defeated Ajax 5-1, asserting their dominance on Europe’s most prestigious football stage. This remarkable victory marked a historic moment for the Blues, as they became the first club to have three teenagers score in a single Champions League fixture, highlighting their commitment to nurturing emerging talent.
Head coach Enzo Maresca made a daring decision by revamping his starting lineup, fielding ten new players-a move that paid off handsomely. Young stars like Marc Guiu, Moises Caicedo, Enzo Fernández, Estevão, and Tyrique George all found the net, showcasing the squad’s vibrant youth and impressive depth.
The match’s momentum shifted early when Ajax’s captain, Kenneth Taylor, received a red card after a VAR review for a reckless challenge on Facundo Buonanotte, leaving Ajax to battle with ten men for most of the game.
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Capitalizing on their numerical advantage, Chelsea struck first through Guiu’s close-range finish. Caicedo then doubled the lead with a shot that took a deflection off a defender. Although Ajax managed to reduce the deficit via a Wout Weghorst penalty, Chelsea quickly regained control.
Fernández converted a penalty to extend the lead, followed by 18-year-old Brazilian prodigy Estevão, who also scored from the spot, pushing the scoreline to 4-1 by halftime. Later, substitute Tyrique George wrapped up the commanding victory with a calm finish, assisted by Andrey Santos’s inventive backheel, capping off a memorable night for the home side.
This win marks Chelsea’s second straight triumph in the Champions League, boosting their position in Group E after an opening defeat to Bayern Munich.
Reflecting on the performance, Maresca praised his squad, stating, “The team displayed remarkable determination and self-belief tonight. Our young talents stepped up magnificently, making this an unforgettable evening for the club and its fans.”