Chelsea continued their impressive season, maintaining a perfect record in the Europa Conference League with a 3-1 victory over FC Astana in Almaty on Thursday.
The win showcased Chelsea’s attacking strength, led by Marc Guiu, who was instrumental in two of the goals.
Guiu opened the scoring after just 14 minutes, bursting into the box and slotting the ball home at the near post.
Four minutes later, he forced an own goal from Astana defender Aleksandr Marochkin, doubling Chelsea’s advantage.
The Blues extended their lead further in the 38th minute when Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall delivered a pinpoint corner that Renato Veiga converted with a close-range header.
Astana pulled one back just before half-time as Marin Tomasov curled a left-footed effort in off the far post. Despite a more even second half, Chelsea held firm to claim all three points.
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Joe Cole Compares Guiu to Luis Suarez
Chelsea legend Joe Cole was full of praise for Marc Guiu during the match, comparing the young forward to Uruguay great Luis Suarez.
Speaking to BBC Sports, Cole said: “Marc Guiu must have watched Luis Suarez as a young man at Barcelona.” He highlighted Guiu’s directness and impact, adding: “The first goal was exquisite from the young man.”
Guiu, who joined Chelsea this summer after rising through Barcelona’s La Masia academy, has quickly adapted to life in England.
Cole even suggested that some Premier League clubs might soon consider taking the 17-year-old on loan.
Looking Ahead
Chelsea’s dominant form, both domestically and in Europe, reinforces their credentials as title contenders this season. The Blues will now shift focus back to the Premier League, where they continue to impress under Enzo Maresca.
