Chelsea player ratings vs Legia Warsaw: Madueke and Dewsbury-Hall shine in 3-0 win | OneFootball

Chelsea have one foot in the UEFA Conference League semi-finals after a dominant 3-0 victory away to Legia Warszawa in the first leg of their quarter-final clash. Tyrique George opened the scoring before second-half substitute Noni Madueke struck twice, both assisted by the outstanding Jadon Sancho.

Next up for the Blues is a Premier League home game against Ipswich Town before they welcome Legia to Stamford Bridge for the return leg.

The first half followed a familiar pattern for Chelsea in Europe: dominant possession against a deep defensive block. Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall came closest to breaking the deadlock, first forcing a save from Legia goalkeeper Kacper Tobiasz, and later directing a Christopher Nkunku cross just wide after it deflected off his shoulder.

The second half began with more urgency for the Blues. A long-range effort from Reece James was parried by Tobiasz, falling kindly for Tyrique George, now playing up front, to tap in Chelsea’s opener. Nkunku had shifted to the No. 10 role with Cole Palmer subbed off at half-time.

Minutes later, a poor clearance by the Legia keeper was headed forward by James to Sancho, who drove into the box and picked out Madueke. The winger calmly finished to double Chelsea’s lead.

Chelsea remained in control, pressing for a third. After the 70th minute, Nkunku made a sharp run into the box and was fouled just outside. Advantage was played and Dewsbury-Hall was brought down inside the area, resulting in a penalty after a VAR review. Nkunku stepped up but his tame effort was saved. Moments later, he redeemed himself by winning an aerial duel and finding Sancho, who delivered a low cross that Madueke converted with ease to make it 3-0.

Legia’s only real chance came in the final seconds, but Filip Jorgensen made a strong save to preserve the clean sheet. Chelsea now take a comfortable three-goal advantage into the second leg.

Chelsea Player Ratings in the Conference League vs Legia Warszawa (4-2-3-1)

Filip Jorgensen – 7/10

Had little to do until stoppage time but made a key save late. Composed in distribution and avoided risky moments.

Josh Acheampong – 7/10

Early block set the tone. Adapted well after moving centrally in the second half. Overall a good game for the academy graduate.

Tosin Adarabioyo – 6.5/10

Played only the first half but was composed and tried to progress the ball when possible.

Benoît Badiashile – 7/10

Strong at the back and untroubled throughout. A solid, no-nonsense performance.

Malo Gusto – 6.5/10

Started on the left, switched to the right after Marc Cucurella was brought on. Provided energy and support to the winger on his side while attacking.

Reece James – 7/10

Involved in two of Chelsea's goals. His shot led to the opener and his header initiated the second. A sharp performance in the middle before being taken off.

Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall – 8/10

The standout in midfield. Involved in multiple chances, won the penalty, and provided energy across the pitch.

Tyrique George – 7.5/10

Took his goal calmly and looked composed in a more advanced role. A mature showing from the youngster.

Cole Palmer – 6/10

Not his best outing, but tried to make things happen in the first half before being subbed.

Jadon Sancho – 7.5/10

Struggled in the first half when he played on the right before shifting to the left at the beginning of the second half. Two excellent assists and a constant threat down that side. One of his best games in a Chelsea shirt.

Christopher Nkunku – 6/10

Struggled to get involved in the first half. Looked better after moving into the No. 10 role following Cole Palmer’s substitution. Made a good run into the box before Dewsbury-Hall was fouled for the penalty. Failed to convert from the spot but quickly recovered to win a header that set up the third goal.

Sub: Noni Madueke – 8/10 (on 46' for Palmer)

Scored twice with great positioning and finishes. Transformed Chelsea’s right wing.

Sub: Levi Colwill – 6.5/10 (on 46' for Adarabioyo)

Picked up where Tosin left off and made a crucial clearance late on.

Sub: Marc Cucurella – 6/10 (on 58' for Reece James)

Solid in both attack and defense. Supported well on the left flank.

Sub: Mathis Amougou – 6/10 (on 75' for Gusto)

Full of energy and enthusiasm. Gave Maresca exactly what he wanted off the bench.

Sub: Shumaira Mheuka – 5.5/10 (on 75' for George)

Another teenager getting minutes. Did the basics without error.

Manager: Enzo Maresca – 7/10