### Chelsea Dominates Panathinaikos to Climb Atop Conference League Table

Chelsea showcased their prowess in Athens as they stormed past Panathinaikos with a 4-1 victory, securing the top spot in the Conference League stage table.

The match started with a significant moment of unity and respect, as both teams honored the late George Baldock, a Panathinaikos player who passed away recently. The Chelsea starting XI came together to present a Chelsea shirt bearing Baldock's name and number to their hosts, supported by a touching stadium-wide tribute from Panathinaikos supporters.

Enzo Maresca made sweeping changes to his lineup for this match. Filip Jorgensen took over the goalkeeping duties, with Marc Cucurella, Axel Disasi, Benoit Badiashile, and Renato Veiga forming the backline. In midfield, Enzo Fernandez and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall paired up, while the attack featured Pedro Neto, Joao Felix, Mykhailo Mudryk, and Christopher Nkunku.

The game sprang to life within the first two minutes with Panathinaikos almost drawing first blood through a powerful header from Tin Jedvaj, which demanded an excellent save from Jorgensen. Chelsea quickly settled into a rhythm and took control of the game. Midway through the first half, Joao Felix coolly converted a chance set up by Mudryk, giving Chelsea the lead and the away fans a cause to celebrate.

Chelsea's dominance continued in the second half, with Mykhailo Mudryk doubling their lead just minutes after the break with a precise header. Felix then scored his second of the night from the edge of the box, his shot taking a deflection to beat the Panathinaikos goalkeeper, Bartlomiej Dragowski. Christopher Nkunku capped off the scoring spree with a confident penalty after Felix earned the spot-kick.

Panathinaikos managed to pull one back in the 69th minute when Facundo Pellistri found the net following a cross from Georgios Vagiannidis. However, this proved to be a mere consolation as Chelsea comfortably managed the remainder of the match.

Manager Enzo Maresca utilized the substantial lead to make several substitutions, including the introduction of Marc Guiu and Tyrique George. Later, Cesare Casadei replaced Enzo Fernandez and Carney Chukwuemeka came on for Dewsbury-Hall. Despite continued pressure, Chelsea couldn't add to their tally, and Felix narrowly missed a chance to complete a hat-trick.

The win leaves Chelsea with a perfect six points from their first two Conference League outings, boasting a goal difference of plus-five. They now turn their attention back to domestic action, preparing for a Premier League clash against Newcastle United at Stamford Bridge.

Panathinaikos had a few notable performances, particularly from Bartlomiej Dragowski and Pellistri, but it wasn't enough to halt a clinical Chelsea side. The Blues' all-around dominance highlighted their growing confidence under Maresca's guidance, as they aim for further success in both European and domestic competitions.