Chelsea triumphs over Sevilla in Conference League final, clinching European Cup victory and sparking wild celebrations
In a historic victory, Chelsea FC clinched the UEFA Conference League title, making football history as the first club to win all major European club competitions. After a 4-1 triumph over Real Betis in the final, the Blues added the Conference League title to their already distinguished trophy cabinet, which includes Champions League victories in 2012 and 2021, two Europa League triumphs in 2013 and 2019, two UEFA Super Cup wins in 1998 and 2021, and two UEFA Cup Winners' Cup titles in 1971 and 1998.
The Spanish football success streak came to an end with Sevilla's final loss in Polish Breslau. Since the 2001/02 season, a European final involving a Spanish team did not culminate in a Spanish club victory in the Champions League, Europa League, or Conference League. Sevilla gained an early advantage in the first European Cup final, with Abde Ezzalzouli scoring in the 9th minute. However, a lacklustre offensive performance saw Chelsea struggle until the second half, at which point they dramatically improved to secure the win with goals from Enzo Fernández (65'), Nicolas Jackson (70'), Jadon Sancho (83'), and Moisés Caicedo (90.+1).
Unfortunate incidents marred the celebration of this significant achievement. Before the kickoff, riots erupted in the streets of Breslau involving English and Spanish fans. More than 20 individuals were arrested, and the police employed stun grenades and water cannons to disperse the unruly crowds. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk strongly condemned the violence, thanking the police for their decisive action. He further warned that if necessary, the police would exhibit even greater firmness during the subsequent day.
It is worth noting that former Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho has also accomplished a similar feat, winning the Champions League, Europa League, and Conference League with different teams. While Chelsea's triumph marks the first time a club has won all major European club competitions, it should also be acknowledged that Mourinho achieved this milestone as a manager prior to Chelsea's success.
Following the historic victory of Chelsea FC in the UEFA Conference League, they are now eyeing dominance in European-leagues, with the Premier League as a potential future target. With Jose Mourinho having previously won the Champions League, Europa League, and Conference League with different teams, the former Chelsea manager's achievement as a manager deserves recognition as well.
