Chelsea learn which two teams they could face as Conference League last-16 is confirmed
CHELSEA are a step closer to learning their Europa Conference League fate for the last 16.
The Blues, who topped the league phase with a flawless showing, now know which two teams they could play in the next round.
Enzo Maresca‘s side bypassed the need for a play-off round and booked a spot straight into the last 16 proper thanks to their league phase efforts.
And now the Stamford Bridge outfit will take on one of the winners from the play-off round in the last 16 in March.
Chelsea had known they would face one of Gent, Real Betis, Copenhagen or Heidenheim next, but now know that it is between just two of those sides after the conclusion of the play-off round.
FC Copenhagen’s 4-3 aggregate win over Heidenheim and Real Betis’ two-legged victory over Gent, means it’ll be one of Betis or Copenhagen who face the tough task of taking on the Londoners.
A draw will take place on Friday to determine which of Betis and Copenhagen will have to travel to SW6 next month.
Whoever isn’t drawn to face Chelsea will take on Portuguese side Vitoria de Guimaraes.
Chelsea haven’t played against Real Betis since a 1-0 defeat in the Champions League all the way back in 2005.
While their last clash against Copenhagen saw them play out a 0-0 draw in the 2010/11 Champions League round of 16.
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A tie with Betis would mean Chelsea would have to deal with in-form Antony, who sealed a loan to the La Liga club in January and has been scoring for fun since.
As a seeded team, Chelsea will contest the away leg of their round of 16 tie on March 6, with the reverse fixture at Stamford Bridge scheduled for March 13.