Felix Shines As Chelsea Honour George Baldock In Emotional UEFA Conference League Win.
Joao Felix scored twice as Chelsea secured a 4-1 victory over Panathinaikos in an emotional UEFA Conference League match, marked by heartfelt tributes to former Panathinaikos defender George Baldock. This was the Greek side’s first home game since Baldock’s tragic passing on 9 October at the age of 31, and the night was filled with gestures of respect for the beloved player.
Before kick-off, Panathinaikos players warmed up in shirts bearing Baldock’s number, 32, while Chelsea players held up a shirt with his name and number. Both sets of fans joined in with placards displaying the number 32, as David Bowie’s “Starman” echoed through the stadium in tribute to Baldock’s nickname.
When the game began, Panathinaikos played with intensity, challenging Chelsea early as Tin Jedvaj’s header was saved by goalkeeper Filip Jorgensen in the second minute. Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca, who made 11 changes to his squad for the match, saw his side struggle to settle initially. However, they soon found their rhythm, with Joao Felix breaking the deadlock on a quick counter-attack, exchanging passes with Mykhailo Mudryk before slotting home from close range.
Mudryk extended Chelsea’s lead shortly after the break, heading in a cross from Pedro Neto to score his first goal of the season. The Ukrainian forward then turned provider once more, setting up Felix for his second goal of the night, which found the net after a deflection.
Christopher Nkunku completed the scoring for Chelsea, confidently converting a penalty following a foul by Daniel Mancini. Though former Manchester United midfielder Facundo Pellistri managed a consolation goal for Panathinaikos, it was Chelsea who emerged as comfortable victors, maintaining their 100% record in the league phase.
The evening was an important reminder of Baldock’s impact on the Panathinaikos community, as players and fans united in tribute. For Chelsea, the win was a decisive step forward, with Felix’s standout performance marking his third goal of the season and helping the club continue its strong European campaign.
