Thu Dec 12 17:44:43 UTC 2024: ## Chelsea Cruise to Conference League Victory Despite Rotation

**Astana, Kazakhstan** – Chelsea secured their place in the Conference League round of 16 with a comfortable 3-1 victory over FC Astana, despite making wholesale changes to their starting lineup. Manager Enzo Maresca rotated ten players from the team that beat Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday, fielding a largely inexperienced side in sub-zero temperatures.

Despite the significant changes, Chelsea dominated the match. Marc Guiu opened the scoring with a solo effort, followed shortly by an own goal from Aleksandr Marochkin. Renato Veiga added a third before halftime with a headed goal from a corner. Astana pulled one back before the break through Marin Tomasov, but it was ultimately too little too late.

Maresca, who had previously voiced concerns about the lengthy travel to Kazakhstan, will be pleased with the result, which allows his key players valuable rest ahead of a busy schedule. The win leaves Chelsea firmly in control of their Conference League group and second in the Premier League, just four points behind leaders Liverpool. Astana, despite a commendable performance, remain near the bottom of the Conference League standings.

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