Panathinaikos vs Chelsea: Full Match Report (Oct 24)
Chelsea dominated Panathinaikos in their Champions League Group H clash on October 24th, securing a resounding 4-0 victory at the OPAP Arena. The Blues were clinical in their performance, showcasing their attacking prowess and defensive solidity.
A Dominant First Half
The first half saw Chelsea assert their dominance from the outset. Mykhailo Mudryk opened the scoring in the 19th minute with a well-taken finish. The Ukrainian winger, signed for a hefty fee in January, finally delivered a performance befitting his price tag. Just seven minutes later, Nicolas Jackson doubled Chelsea's lead with a powerful header. The Senegalese striker, another summer arrival, is quickly establishing himself as a key component of Chelsea's attack.
A Second Half Masterclass
The second half saw Chelsea continue their onslaught. Carney Chukwuemeka extended the lead in the 58th minute with a well-placed shot. The young midfielder, making his Champions League debut, showcased his technical ability and composure.
The final nail in the coffin came in the 78th minute. A controversial penalty was awarded to Chelsea after a handball by Panathinaikos defender Dimitris Kourbelis. N'Golo Kante converted the penalty with aplomb.
Key Takeaways
- Chelsea's attacking threat: The Blues displayed a potent attacking force throughout the game. The combination of Mudryk, Jackson, and Chukwuemeka proved too much for the Panathinaikos defense.
- N'Golo Kante's return: The French midfielder, who has been plagued by injuries in recent seasons, returned to action and showcased his class with a composed penalty conversion.
- Panathinaikos' struggles: The Greek side struggled to cope with Chelsea's intensity and quality. They offered little threat going forward and were ultimately outclassed.
Looking Ahead
Chelsea will be looking to build on this emphatic victory as they continue their Champions League campaign. Panathinaikos, on the other hand, will need to regroup and find a way to compete in a difficult group.
This match showcased Chelsea's potential as a force in the Champions League. Their impressive display against Panathinaikos sends a clear message to their rivals: they are a team to be reckoned with.