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No marvel Chelsea and head coach Liam Rosenior insist Cole Palmer is “untouchable”. It takes huge gamers to supply the massive moments within the Champions League and Palmer got here up with two simply when his group wanted them.
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It might have been Joao Pedro who scored twice for Chelsea, nevertheless it was the half-time introduction of Palmer, who registered two assists, that swung issues again within the guests’ favour.
Pedro’s late winner was courtesy of an ideal cross from Palmer, who had additionally laid the ball off for the striker’s first objective. Chelsea followers have been determined to listen to him say he’s glad on the membership, however Palmer did his speaking together with his toes.
The victory meant that Chelsea and spared Liam Rosenior’s group two further “punishment” video games. One senses there may very well be extra huge European nights forward for Palmer this season now the competitors actually will get going.
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Rosenior had been unequivocal in his insistence that Palmer is glad at Chelsea and is one among whom Manchester United – or some other membership – can’t prize away from Stamford Bridge.
However Chelsea’s head coach began together with his star man on the bench in Naples and it practically backfired, because the group squandered an early lead and went in on the half-time break behind.
Rosenior has proved himself to be a quick learner all through his teaching profession and he confirmed that high quality once more by sending Palmer on at half-time. Having the 23-year-old, who has struggled with accidents, able to make an influence was a part of the plan.
“There was no approach that Cole may have began this sport and performed via to 60, 70, 80 minutes, so I knew Napoli had had a tough time with accidents,” mentioned Rosenior.
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“I felt that later within the sport we might be stronger and I felt Cole’s efficiency was magnificent. Not simply his high quality, his urgent, his working for the group.
“We have to take care of him and I feel the best way that he’s managed himself within the final two weeks has been magnificent and hopefully we will now see the very best of him now that he’s absolutely match. We have to see him completely relish nights like this on an enormous event.”
For injury-hit Napoli and Chelsea’s former head coach Antonio Conte, failure to win meant elimination from the Champions League and he believes his outdated membership are actually among the many favourites to win the competitors.
“We’re speaking a couple of group that’s actually robust, however not only a group, a squad,” mentioned Conte. “I contemplate Chelsea one of many favorite groups to attempt to win one thing necessary. Cole Palmer, we’re speaking a couple of incredible participant with nice high quality. However not solely him, they’ve many incredible gamers.”
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In addition to beginning with Palmer on the bench, Rosenior sprang a shock of kinds by matching Napoli up with a again three, with full-backs Reece James and Marc Cucurella taking part in both aspect of Wesley Fofana within the center.
The change of formation precipitated confusion for Chelsea defensively, although they took a Nineteenth-minute lead because of an Enzo Fernandez penalty after James had despatched a free-kick into the outstretched arm of Juan Jesus.
It was simply the beginning Chelsea had wished, however there have been shortly warnings of what was to comply with. Robert Sanchez stopped Napoli replying instantly by reacting properly to chop out a harmful cross from Mathias Olivera and making a sensible save together with his foot.
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Chelsea have been nervous on the again and have been lastly made to pay within the thirty third minute by Antonio Vergara. It was Napoli’s first objective from open play within the Champions League and it was price ready for. Having evaded the tried problem from Moises Caicedo, Vergara turned previous Fofana and poked the ball into the web.
Eljif Elmas shot excessive and huge after being given a sight of objective, however there was nonetheless time for Napoli to take the lead earlier than the half-time break via on-loan United flop Rasmus Hojlund. Chelsea have been struggling to defend their flanks and Mathias Olivera took benefit to overlap on the left and cross for Hojlund to divert the ball into the web on the close to submit.
It left Chelsea needing to attain twice with out reply within the second half and the choice to ship on Palmer instead of Pedro Neto helped the guests to do it – together with the introduction of Trevoh Chalobah, who ought to have began the sport.
Chelsea levelled the scores in spectacular style, as Pedro collected the ball 20 yards out, turned and smashed an unstoppable shot previous Alex Meret. There was nothing flashy about Palmer’s half within the objective, nevertheless it additionally was not a coincidence that it had been him who had laid the ball off for the Brazilian.
Joao Pedro celebrates scoring his second objective to place Chelsea 3-2 up – Getty Pictures/Alberto Pizzoli
Chalobah needed to make an excellent block to cease Hojlund getting in on the close to submit once more after Leonardo Spinazzola had discovered area on the proper and despatched the ball into the six-yard field.
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Estevao Willian, who had been so good towards Crystal Palace, discovered it robust to make an influence in Naples and he was changed by Alejandro Garnacho, as Chelsea looked for the winner they wished.
It got here simply moments after Napoli had despatched on former Chelsea striker Romelu Lukaku to a refrain of loud boos from the visiting followers. Palmer performed an exquisite ball via and Pedro made no mistake to beat Meret.
10:37pm
Thanks for becoming a member of us
That brings our protection of Chelsea’s victory over Napoli to an finish, as Liam Rosenior’s males secured their spot within the final 16 of the Champions League.
The west London aspect will face both PSG, Newcastle, Monaco and Qarabag for a spot within the quarter-finals. Thanks for becoming a member of us!
10:34pm
Avoiding two further video games ‘huge’, says Rosenior
On not having to play in a play-off tie, Rosenior mentioned: “It’s huge, that’s enormous for us to have the ability to work with the gamers on the coaching floor, the schedule has meant we’ve performed, we’ve recovered, we’ve prepped a sport after which gone once more.
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“To work with the gamers and for them to grasp what we wish to do as workers with them and I can run them and get them fitter as properly which shall be good.”
10:29pm
Rosenior ‘delighted’ with win
Liam Rosenior to TNT Sports activities: “I assumed the character of the gamers, the resilience within the second half, the response to going behind was so constructive, all of the issues I’m asking for.
“I wished to go aggressive within the first half however the distances have been too huge, we corrected it at half-time, I made personnel adjustments, Pedro scores an impressive objective, its an impressive efficiency from him, he’s on condition that to me since I’ve come from the membership, so I’m delighted that have been via.
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“It’s the primary time a group has received right here for a very long time, so for the lads to come back from behind and present that character makes me a really glad head coach.”
10:24pm
‘Folks doubt us’ – Pedro says final 16 place ‘very constructive’
Joao Pedro chatting with TNT Sports activities: “I’m very glad for the victory, the group did an excellent sport. My targets – I attempted to do my greatest to assist my group and right this moment I may rating two good targets and the necessary factor is the three factors.”
On what Rosenior mentioned at half-time, he mentioned: “The coach mentioned to be constructive and calm and put our sport on the pitch, first half we didn’t do it that a lot, second half was extra open and I feel that’s why we scored two targets.”
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On taking part in with Palmer: “Everybody is aware of Cole’s an excellent participant, when he’s on the pitch he’ll do one thing completely different, he’s a particular participant and I’m glad to play with him.”
On reaching the final 16: “It’s very constructive for us as a result of folks have a variety of doubt about us, I feel right this moment we confirmed our energy, it’s essential to already be there, we’re very glad.”
10:16pm
Chelsea finish Napoli house run
Chelsea’s win ended Napoli’s 25-match unbeaten run at Diego Armando Maradona Stadium, whereas the Serie A aspect had misplaced simply one among their earlier 20 Champions League video games on house soil.
10:15pm
Chelsea resurgent underneath Rosenior
Tonight’s outcome continues Liam Rosenior’s spectacular begin at Chelsea, together with his group profitable 5 of their six video games since his appointment.
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This night’s victory is definitely probably the most spectacular of his tenure and it’ll give the 41-year-old a variety of confidence seeing off an Antonio Conte aspect.
10:10pm
Premier League dominance
It’s been a profitable night for Premier League groups, with 5 of the six representatives securing a prime eight end.
It was solely Newcastle who failed to take action, however they are going to take loads from a draw away at champions PSG.
10:08pm
Backside half
And right here is the underside half of the standings, with Napoli eradicated after ending thirtieth.
Elsewhere, Benfica goalkeeper Anatoliy Trubin scored a 98th-minute objective to provide his aspect a 4-2 lead over Actual Madrid, holding them within the competitors on objective distinction.
10:05pm
Last standings
It’s throughout in tonight’s 18 Champions League video games, so right here is the confirmed prime 16.
10:03pm
WATCH: Pedro’s profitable objective
10:00pm
Attainable opponents
Chelsea’s potential final 16 opponents as issues stand are PSG, Newcastle, Monaco and Qarabag.
09:58pm
Chelsea into final 16
With different full-time whistles being blown, it’s now confirmed that Chelsea are into the final 16.
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Napoli, in the meantime, are out of the competitors completely.
09:56pm
Full time: Napoli 2 Chelsea 3
Chelsea survive stoppage-time and so they have clinched a large win in Naples because of Pedro’s second-half double.
We’re not at full-time in all of tonight’s video games however Rosenior’s males are certainly going via to the final 16.
09:54pm
90+4 minutes: Napoli 2 Chelsea 3
Garnacho provides the ball away on the sting of the realm and Di Lorenzo is slid into the proper of the field.
The skipper pulls it again to Lukaku simply to the proper of the penalty spot however his right-footed effort is simply too near Sanchez. A giant, huge probability for the previous Chelsea man.
09:51pm
90+2 minutes: Napoli 2 Chelsea 3
There shall be 5 minutes of stoppage-time for Napoli to supply one thing.
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Cucurella provides away a useless foul and after working it quick, Napoli’s cross into the realm is a harmful one, however Buongiorno will get his pull-back all incorrect on the again submit.
09:50pm
90 minutes: Napoli 2 Chelsea 3
Pedro does properly to attract a foul and that may swimsuit Chelsea properly, providing them the prospect to run the clock down some extra. The Brazilian has been sensational on this second half.
An attention-grabbing change now with Gittens, who was introduced on within the second half, changed by Badiashile. A purely tactical transfer however not ultimate for the winger.
09:48pm
89 minutes: Napoli 2 Chelsea 3
Fofana picks up a reserving for a late problem on Hojlund on midway. Chelsea are practically there however they might want to hold their heads in these remaining minutes.
09:45pm
86 minutes: Napoli 2 Chelsea 3
As talked about, Chelsea are actually as much as sixth, which means they are going to qualify mechanically into the final 16 as issues stand.
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As for Napoli, they’re approach down in thirtieth and are heading out of the competitors.
09:43pm
GOAL! Pedro scores second to provide Chelsea lead
Napoli 2 Chelsea 3 (Pedro) Chelsea have turned it round and it’s Pedro as soon as once more.
The Brazilian is slid into the Napoli half by Palmer and he drives into the proper of the field earlier than ending properly into the underside left nook. It’s one other fabulous objective by the ahead.
Chelsea are as much as sixth!
09:42pm
82 minutes: Napoli 2 Chelsea 2
Heading into the ultimate 10 minutes, Chelsea are actually all the way down to eleventh, whereas Napoli stay within the elimination zone.
Two extra adjustments now from Napoli and it’s former Chelsea man Lukaku approaching alongside Buekema.
09:38pm
78 minutes: Napoli 2 Chelsea 2
Di Lorenzo seems to be in some ache nevertheless it seems as if he’s going to proceed.
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Chelsea have had a variety of the ball since drawing stage however they’re struggling to create as soon as once more.
Will they discover a winner?
09:35pm
76 minutes: Napoli 2 Chelsea 2
Elmas goes into the guide for a foul on James as Di Lorenzo goes down with an harm.
There may be going to be a reasonably prolonged break in play because the Napoli skipper receives remedy and Chelsea take the prospect for a team-talk.
09:34pm
74 minutes: Napoli 2 Chelsea 2
Chelsea are having extra of the ball and doubtless really feel the extra prone to discover a winner, with Napoli’s injury-hit aspect maybe beginning to run out of steam.
The guests pinch the ball excessive up the pitch and Estevao has choices however seems to go alone and ultimately provides away the foul.
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He had prime search for Palmer or Pedro there. That seems to be his remaining involvement, with Garnacho approaching in his place.
09:30pm
71 minutes: Napoli 2 Chelsea 2
Spinazzola is launched into acres of area in the proper of the realm however his low ball in search of Hojlund on the close to submit is lower out by Chalobah.
Chelsea usually are not convincing on the subsequent nook however ultimately scramble it away.
There may be then a pause within the sport with McTominay down within the Chelsea field following that nook.
09:27pm
67 minutes: Napoli 2 Chelsea 2
Chelsea look extra assured now as they probe on the sting of Napoli’s field, however their newest transfer ends with Fernandez sending an effort over the bar.
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A change now from Conte, with Jesus changed by Gutierrez.
09:24pm
64 minutes: Napoli 2 Chelsea 2
Chelsea have climbed as much as Tenth with that objective however stay exterior of the automated qualification spots. They’re stage on factors with PSG, who occupy eighth spot, however path the champions by a goal-difference margin of 4.
Napoli have dropped again into the elimination zone and are heading out!
09:22pm
GOAL! Pedro ranges match with thunderous strike
Napoli 2 Chelsea 2 (Pedro) Chelsea are again stage and what an exquisite objective it’s from Pedro.
Palmer finds the Brazilian on the sting of the field together with his again to objective and he spins previous his man with an exquisite first contact earlier than rifling an effort into the highest proper nook together with his weaker proper foot.
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That could be a enormous objective for Rosenior’s males, moments after the change in system from the Chelsea boss.
09:20pm
60 minutes: Napoli 2 Chelsea 1
It seems as if it will likely be Estevao taking part in centrally quite than Palmer, although the England man continues to float inside.
09:18pm
59 minutes: Napoli 2 Chelsea 1
Some extra adjustments coming from Rosenior now, with Chalobah and Gittens approaching for Gusto and Santos.
Which will properly see James shift out to right-back as a part of a again 4, Fernandez drop alongside Caicedo in a midfield two, and Palmer transfer into the No 10 function.
09:16pm
56 minutes: Napoli 2 Chelsea 1
Opta at present compute that Chelsea’s possibilities of securing an computerized qualification spot are down at 13.15%. Rosenior’s males have to step issues as much as change that.
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As issues stand, they sit thirteenth within the standings.
09:12pm
52 minutes: Napoli 2 Chelsea 1
Having taken the lead, Napoli are clearly glad for Chelsea to knock the ball round their defence, with the hosts sitting in with a stable form and able to spring on the counter.
It’s going to take some creativeness from the guests to unlock this Napoli defence now.
09:09pm
49 minutes: Napoli 2 Chelsea 1
Palmer is getting loads of touches early on on this second half and he takes purpose with a speculative effort from vary nevertheless it’s blocked by the hosts.
Moments later, there’s a unfastened cross from Fofana and Vergara makes the interception to create a two-on-two, however Fofana makes amends, blocking the winger’s through-ball in search of Hojlund.
09:06pm
47 minutes: Napoli 2 Chelsea 1
Palmer has began on the proper flank, with Estevao popping out to the left. Based mostly on the opening interval, it’s probably Palmer will drift inside, with Gusto advancing down Chelsea’s proper.
09:04pm
46 minutes: Napoli 2 Chelsea 1
We’re again underway at Diego Armando Maradona Stadium, with the hosts kicking the second interval off.
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Chelsea are in determined want of a objective if they’re to have any hopes of securing a top-eight end and Rosenior has acted at half-time, bringing Palmer on for Neto.
09:01pm
WATCH: Vergara’s sensational equaliser
08:59pm
Will Rosenior follow again three?
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Chelsea gamers regarded irritated as they trudged off at half-time after throwing away a Nineteenth-minute lead.
Pedro Neto and Moises Caicedo have been exchanging phrases, with Neto additionally chatting to goalkeeper Robert Sanchez.
It is going to be attention-grabbing to see whether or not or not Rosenior sticks together with his three on the again as a result of it hasn’t actually labored to this point.
08:53pm
As issues stand
Chelsea have dropped out of the automated qualification spots, all the way down to twelfth within the standings, a degree adrift of Newcastle, who at present occupy eighth spot.
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Napoli, in the meantime, have climbed out of the elimination zone and as much as Nineteenth, which, like Chelsea, leaves them in a play-off spot.
08:49pm
Half-time: Napoli 2 Chelsea 1
The half-time whistle is blown following an entertaining opening interval and it’s the hosts with the benefit on the break.
08:48pm
45+2 minutes: Napoli 2 Chelsea 1
Chelsea practically discover an immediate equaliser with Neto’s cross choosing out Pedro just a few yards out, nevertheless it’s barely too excessive for the Brazilian, who can solely head over the bar.
There shall be three minutes added on on the finish of the primary half right here. One in all Conte’s assistants picks up a yellow for his complaints over a problem from Caicedo.
08:45pm
GOAL! Napoli forward via Hojlund
Napoli 2 Chelsea 1 (Hojlund) Napoli have turned issues round and it’s the Manchester United loanee with the objective.
Olivera is slid into the left of the realm and he performs a low ball into the six-yard field. Hojlund will get in entrance of Fofana and steers a end previous Sanchez on the close to submit.
Napoli have been the much better aspect since going behind.
08:43pm
42 minutes: Napoli 1 Chelsea 1
James does properly to spring ahead and pinch the ball excessive up the pitch however Pedro’s through-ball seeking to slide Estevao in on objective is wayward.
08:41pm
40 minutes: Napoli 1 Chelsea 1
It’s a beautiful transfer from the hosts. McTominay lays the ball out huge to Spinazzola earlier than getting it again simply inside the realm.
The Scot lays the ball again to Vergara on the sting of the field however his left-footed strike flashes huge of the highest left nook.
08:38pm
37 minutes: Napoli 1 Chelsea 1
That objective sees Chelsea drop again all the way down to eighth, however meaning they continue to be within the computerized qualification spots. Napoli, in the meantime, stay within the elimination zone.
08:35pm
GOAL! Vergara equalises with chic solo objective
Napoli 1 Chelsea 1 (Vergara) Napoli are stage and what a objective it’s from the Naples-born participant – his first senior objective!
Vergara latches onto a poor clearance 30 yards out and drives into the left of the realm earlier than spinning previous Fofana with a sensational piece of talent and ending into the underside proper nook.
There are enormous celebrations from Conte and the house gamers.
08:33pm
32 minutes: Napoli 0 Chelsea 1
Chelsea are being actually courageous out of possession, going man-for-man towards Napoli and squeezing them excessive up the pitch.
08:30pm
30 minutes: Napoli 0 Chelsea 1
It’s one other shaky second for Chelsea with Di Lorenzo present in acres within the left of the realm, however his low strike aimed on the close to submit is saved properly by the toes of Sanchez.
The Napoli header from the next nook is weak and straightforward for the Chelsea keeper.
08:29pm
28 minutes: Napoli 0 Chelsea 1
Napoli have actually stepped issues up since going behind and this time it’s Vergara present in area down their proper, however his harmful cross is headed behind for a nook by James.
Sanchez comes out properly to assemble the set-piece.
James then sweeps a chic ball into the proper channel for Neto to chase and the winger does excellently to get there first however he can’t fairly pull off the lob over Meret.
Pedro’s audacious bicycle kick then goes properly huge.
08:24pm
23 minutes: Napoli 0 Chelsea 1
Napoli look for the immediate response and go near discovering it with Olivera’s low ball from the left of the field inflicting issues, however Sanchez manages to parry to a Chelsea shirt.
Moments later, Di Lorenzo is present in an analogous place in the proper of the realm, however his low ball throughout the face of objective is lower out by Fofana, sending it behind for a nook.
Following the set-piece, Olivera is discovered on the again submit however his volley is blocked crucially by James. Chelsea are on the ropes!
08:22pm
21 minutes: Napoli 0 Chelsea 1
That objective has taken Chelsea as much as sixth as issues stand. What an important objective it may very well be.
08:20pm
GOAL! Fernandez fires Chelsea forward from 12 yards
Napoli 0 Chelsea 1 (Fernandez) Fernandez steps up for Chelsea and fires house into the underside left nook.
It’s an excellent spot-kick, beating Meret regardless of the Napoli keeper diving the proper approach.
08:19pm
Penalty to Chelsea!
Napoli 0 Chelsea 0 Pedro is fouled together with his again to objective and Chelsea win the free-kick in a promising place, simply over 25 yards out from objective in a central place.
James and Fernandez regulate the angle earlier than the Chelsea skipper takes purpose and his curling shot is blocked by the arm of Jesus. The referee factors straight to the spot!
This shall be checked by VAR however it could be stunning if it’s turned over.
08:14pm
14 minutes: Napoli 0 Chelsea 0
Chelsea break properly down their left however Gusto’s cross into the field is pretty poor and simply cleared by the hosts. Nevertheless it’s been an assured begin by the Premier League aspect.
08:13pm
12 minutes: Napoli 0 Chelsea 0
Fernandez spins well in midfield and is working on the Napoli however defence, however the assault runs out of steam and the hosts get numbers again.
However Rosenior’s males then take pleasure in a extremely prolonged spell of possession, which is able to assist them to take the sting out of issues early on right here.
The guests then win a nook down their left however Fofana’s looping headers is straightforward for Meret.
08:10pm
9 minutes: Napoli 0 Chelsea 0
It’s practically a freak-goal for Napoli! Caicedo’s cross again to Sanchez is missing tempo, encouraging McTominay to chase it down.
Sanchez will get there first, however his first-time clearance is fired straight into the face of the Scot earlier than pinging over the bar for a goal-kick.
McTominay is understandably in a little bit of a daze and is requiring remedy.
08:07pm
5 minutes: Napoli 0 Chelsea 0
Chelsea are constructing possession with a again 4, with James in central defence alongside Fofana. They’re then shifting to extra of a again three with out the ball, with Gusto pushing on.
James exhibits a superb burst of tempo to take care of a ball in behind from Hojlund following a turnover. The England man has performed in the proper aspect of a again three on a number of events, however hardly ever in central defence as a part of a again 4, so this shall be an attention-grabbing check tonight.
08:04pm
3 minutes: Napoli 0 Chelsea 0
Di Lorenzo is again on his toes after some remedy and it seems like he shall be okay to proceed, which shall be an enormous aid for Conte.
Napoli have simply seven substitutes on their bench this night, Chelsea have 12.
08:02pm
2 minutes: Napoli 0 Chelsea 0
There may be an early harm concern for Napoli, the very last thing Conte wants, with their captain Di Lorenzo on the ground following a clumsy touchdown.
08:01pm
1 min: Napoli 0 Chelsea 0
We’re underway in Naples in an electrical Diego Armando Maradona Stadium, with Chelsea kicking issues off, going from proper to left on this opening interval.
It’s going to be a testing ambiance for Chelsea and their younger gamers this night. How will they cope?
07:57pm
Kick-off approaching
The groups have emerged from the tunnel at Diego Armando Maradona Stadium and we’re simply moments away from kick-off on this essential conflict.
07:57pm
Chelsea’s system tonight
Chelsea have reportedly been warming up in a again three, with James on the proper aspect and Cucurella on the left, which might match up towards Napoli’s system.
That will see Gusto grow to be a proper wing-back, with Neto on the alternative aspect.
07:55pm
Tonight’s activity for Chelsea
With all 36 groups kicking off on the identical time tonight, Chelsea come into this night’s sport occupying the ultimate spot within the all-important prime eight, however they’re one among eight groups on 13 factors, from Paris Saint-Germain in sixth all the way down to Atalanta in thirteenth.
Subsequently, the two-time Champions League winners will virtually definitely want a victory in Naples to cement their spot within the computerized qualification locations, and even then, their destiny could properly come all the way down to objective distinction.
07:51pm
‘Huge check’ for Chelsea, says Rosenior
Chelsea boss Liam Rosenior, chatting with TNT Sports activities: “Once you get into soccer you wish to get to the very highest stage, whether or not that’s a participant or coach. And I’ve actually loved the primary few weeks in my new function.
“It’s been a constructive begin. Firstly the gamers and their engagement and perspective and willingness to study, I feel they’ve loved it as properly. Tonight is one other huge check for us and if we handle to come back via it , it provides us an excellent probability of being within the prime eight.”
On Napoli: “They’re excellent on transition. They’re very organised of their press. From what I’ve seen they are going to press us actually, actually excessive, whether or not that’s from a 3-4-3 or a 5-4-1.
“They’ve excellent gamers. They construct properly from the again. It’s going to be a tough sport and we’re ready for it.”
Chelsea boss Liam Rosenior – Getty Pictures /Carl Recine
07:49pm
Last preparations
Napoli midfielder Scott McTominay warms up – Getty Pictures/Andreas Solaro
Chelsea’s Cole Palmer through the heat up – Reuters/Matteo Ciambelli
07:47pm
Chelsea’s poor document in Italy
Chelsea have solely received one among their final 9 Champions League away video games towards Italian sides, dropping seven of these.
The latest of these got here this season, dropping 2-1 at Atalanta after taking the lead.
And regardless of their poor kind, Napoli are unbeaten of their final 25 video games at house, whereas they’ve misplaced simply one among their final Champions League video games on house soil.
07:42pm
Caicedo on disciplinary points
Chelsea midfielder Moises Caicedo mentioned this week that he must “study” from his disciplinary points this season.
The 24-year-old has obtained 12 yellow playing cards and two purple playing cards in 31 matches for membership and nation to this point this marketing campaign.
Requested about his document, Caicedo advised reporters on Tuesday: “Sure, for certain. I feel gamers don’t prefer to get yellow playing cards or purple playing cards. I have to study from that.
“That’s why folks – referees – recognise me, as a result of I’m very aggressive in profitable the ball again, however not with unhealthy intentions.”
However Rosenior was filled with reward for the midfielder, saying: “The scary factor for him is that, sure, he’s nonetheless younger, however he performs generally like he’s 35 years outdated, as a result of his understanding of the sport is prime.”
Moises Caicedo talks to the media – Getty Pictures/Chris Lee
07:36pm
Napoli on poor run of kind
Damage-stricken Napoli are going via a tough run of outcomes, profitable simply one among their final six video games in all competitions, leaving them 9 factors adrift of Serie A leaders Inter and within the elimination zone within the Champions League.
Nonetheless, they’re stage on factors with the three groups above them in Europe and are inside attain of the following 5 groups within the standings, which means it’s all to play for this night.
07:31pm
Chelsea resurgent underneath Rosenior
Following a droop in kind that contributed to Enzo Maresca’s exit, Chelsea are having fun with a new-manager bounce underneath Liam Rosenior.
They’ve received 4 of their 5 video games because the 41-year-old took over, together with towards Pafos final day out in Europe and at Crystal Palace on Sunday.
07:28pm
Earlier assembly
The one earlier conferences between Napoli and Chelsea got here within the final 16 of the 2011-12 Champions League.
The Premier League aspect eradicated the Italians in dramatic style, profitable 5-4 on combination en path to their first Champions League title.
Nonetheless, Napoli did win their house leg 3-1.
07:23pm
Matt Legislation: I do know the true Antonio Conte and he’s nothing such as you would count on
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Standing exterior a busy cafe in Turin, my assumption had been that I’d be taken to a lodge or workplace farther from the town centre for my viewers with Antonio Conte.
What I had not anticipated was to be met on the street by Conte himself and from there it was a brief stroll collectively to his household house, the place his spouse Elisabetta warmly greeted us.
The Napoli supervisor, who hosts one among his former golf equipment Chelsea within the Champions League on Wednesday night time, is thought to be some of the uncompromising coaches of the trendy period. A repute for profitable and a hard-line perspective to any who deviate from that.
In individual, he’s very completely different – a household man who doesn’t have an enormous entourage and one who’s obsessed by the sport. He’s additionally glorious firm.
07:17pm
Acquainted face in opposition dugout
There may be one other acquainted face for Chelsea followers tonight, with Antonio Conte within the dugout for Napoli.
The Italian stays the final supervisor to ship a Premier League title at Stamford Bridge, doing so within the 2016-17 marketing campaign.
Talking this week, Conte made obvious his envy of his outdated group’s monetary energy.
“When you’ve got the chance to spend maybe €120-130m on 22-year-old gamers,” Conte mentioned. “Simply consider Caicedo and Fernandez, who have been purchased for €250m.
“Everybody might be good with €60m to spend on Estevao. I’d love to do the identical with my chairman, however solely sure golf equipment can try this. In Italy, nobody can. In England, there are various groups that may do it.”
Conte has solely received one among his 5 video games towards Chelsea since leaving, dropping three of these, though the one victory got here in his most up-to-date assembly, profitable 2-0 with Spurs in February 2023.
Antonio Conte celebrates together with his gamers after profitable the Premier League title in 2017 – Reuters/Carl Recine
07:12pm
Lukaku return well timed as Napoli hit by accidents
Former Chelsea gamers Kevin de Bruyne and Billy Gilmour have been amongst 10 first-team gamers to overlook Napoli’s 3-0 defeat to Juventus on the weekend with harm.
Nonetheless, Romelu Lukaku, one other former Chelsea man, returned from a seven-month spell on the sidelines in Sunday’s loss. The striker begins on the bench once more this night.
Napoli’s Romelu Lukaku in motion on Sunday – Reuters /Alberto Lingria
07:05pm
Tonight’s groups in full
Napoli: Meret; Di Lorenzo, Jesus, Buongiorno; Spinazzola, Lobotka, McTominay, Olivera; Vergara, Hojlund, Elmas.
Subs: Contini, Spinelli, Gutierrez, Lukaku, Beukema, De Chiara, Garafalo.
Chelsea: Sanchez; Gusto, James, Fofana, Cucurella; Santos, Caicedo; Estevao, Fernandez, Neto; Pedro.
Subs: Jorgensen, Acheampong, Gittens, Delap, Badiashile, Garnacho, Guiu, Chalobah, Hato, Palmer, Merrick, George.
07:03pm
One change for Napoli regardless of defeat
Antonio Conte has made one change to his Napoli aspect following their 3-0 defeat at Juventus on the weekend, bringing Olivera instead of Gutierrez, with the Serie A champions persevering with to wrestle with an in depth record of accidents.
06:59pm
Shock function for James
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There’s a shock within the Chelsea group, with Reece James wanting like he shall be beginning within the centre of defence. Central defenders Trevoh Chalobah, Benoit Badiashile and Josh Acheampong are all on the substitutes’ bench.
Chelsea captain Reece James – Getty Pictures/Chris Lee
06:57pm
Tonight’s activity for Chelsea
With all 36 groups kicking off on the identical time tonight, Chelsea come into this night’s sport occupying the ultimate spot within the all-important prime eight, however they’re one among eight groups on 13 factors, from Paris Saint-Germain in sixth all the way down to Atalanta in thirteenth.
Subsequently, the two-time Champions League winners will virtually definitely want a victory in Naples to cement their spot within the computerized qualification locations, and even then, their destiny could properly come all the way down to objective distinction.
06:52pm
Rosenior makes two adjustments as Palmer on bench
Rosenior has made two adjustments to his Chelsea group following their 3-1 victory at Crystal Palace on Sunday, bringing in Gusto and Fofana for Chalobah and Badiashile.
It seems James could also be beginning at centre-back, whereas Palmer begins on the bench on his return from harm.
06:49pm
‘It’s so unrealistic’ – Rosenior says talks of Palmer exit are ‘not true’
In addition to issues over Cole Palmer’s health, there has additionally been hypothesis in latest weeks of the England worldwide being open to a transfer away from Stamford Bridge.
However supervisor Liam Rosenior reiterated the ahead’s happiness at being on the membership as he spoke to the press on Tuesday.
“Sure [he’s untouchable] and sure [he’s happy],” Rosenior defined. “It’s easy. Cole’s an unbelievable participant. I’m not stunned on the timing. A brand new supervisor is available in and hastily there’s folks unsettled. It’s not true.
“Cole’s right here, he’s very glad and I can’t wait to see him again on the pitch.”
Requested whether or not there had been any reassurances from the board over Palmer’s future, he responded: “There’s no cause for assurance. It’s so unrealistic. It’s come from nowhere. There’s nothing in it. There’s no cause to have the dialog. That’s the place I’m at.
“Cole could be very glad, he loves being right here and he desires to be a Chelsea participant. You possibly can’t cease hypothesis, however some hypothesis is so removed from the reality.”
Chelsea’s Cole Palmer and supervisor Liam Rosenior – PA/Bradley Collyer
06:41pm
Chelsea fan reveals particulars of ‘terrifying’ screwdriver assault by Napoli ultras
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A Chelsea supporter whose pal was stabbed with a screwdriver has described the “terrifying” second they have been attacked by a gaggle of Napoli ultras.
Aadam, who didn’t wish to give his surname, is in Naples for the primary time together with his pal Marcus for ’s Champions League sport towards Napoli on Wednesday night time..
“We turned down a aspect road on the best way to the pub and there was a gaggle of about 30 ultras. They weren’t carrying Napoli shirts and about half of them had their faces coated. Right away they began shouting ‘the place are you from?’ and everybody knew it was harmful,” 23-year-old Aadam mentioned.
“The fellows on the entrance began working and, sadly, they grabbed Marcus by his shoulder and began speaking to him. He didn’t suppose something was taking place after which hastily he’d been stabbed within the leg. It was with a screwdriver, quite than a knife, nevertheless it clearly precipitated him a variety of ache. One other one among our mates had his coat sliced. It was terrifying and also you begin to suppose the worst, that you simply’re all going to finish up getting stabbed.”
Learn the total story .
06:36pm
Chelsea harm information
Cole Palmer has travelled with the squad after lacking video games towards Pafos and Crystal Palace with a small thigh harm.
Romeo Lavia is again doing a little coaching however Liam Rosenior mentioned Chelsea are “taking it actually fastidiously with him” as a result of his previous harm struggles and he must “clear just a few extra hurdles to totally practice”.
Chelsea will once more be with out Tosin Adarabioyo, who got here off injured towards Brentford, and Dario Essugo, who’s out for 3 weeks after a slip in coaching.
Cole Palmer in Chelsea coaching on Tuesday – Getty Pictures/Jasper Wax
06:31pm
Chelsea goal prime eight as hosts on brink of exit
Good night, and welcome to reside protection of Napoli vs Chelsea from a blockbuster remaining spherical of league-phase fixtures within the Champions League, as Liam Rosenior’s aspect hope to safe their spot within the final 16 with a win over the Serie A champions, who’re combating to remain within the competitors.
With all 36 groups kicking off on the identical time tonight, Chelsea come into this night’s sport occupying the ultimate spot within the all-important prime eight, however they’re one among eight groups on 13 factors, from Paris Saint-Germain in sixth all the way down to Atalanta in thirteenth.
Subsequently, the two-time Champions League winners will virtually definitely want a victory in Naples to cement their spot within the computerized qualification locations, and even then, their destiny could properly come all the way down to objective distinction.
Following a droop in kind that contributed to Enzo Maresca’s exit, Chelsea are having fun with a new-manager bounce underneath Rosenior, profitable 4 of their 5 video games because the 41-year-old took over, together with towards Pafos final day out in Europe and at Crystal Palace on Sunday.
The west London aspect are developing towards a well-known face this night, taking over Antonio Conte, who stays the final supervisor to information them to a Premier League title, doing so within the 2016-17 marketing campaign after their Tenth-placed end the season earlier than.
The Italian achieved an equivalent feat with Napoli final 12 months, taking them to the Serie A title in his first season on the membership after they completed Tenth within the 2023-24 marketing campaign.
However in an analogous method to his tenure at Stamford Bridge, Conte’s second season is proving much less profitable. As issues stand, an injury-stricken Napoli are heading out of the Champions League on the first hurdle, whereas they’re 9 factors off the tempo in Serie A following a 3-0 defeat away at Juventus on the weekend.
They at present sit on the prime of the elimination zone in Europe; nonetheless, they’re stage on factors with the three groups above them and are inside attain of the following 5 groups within the standings, which means it’s all to play for this night.