Joao Felix scored twice as Chelsea secured a win over Panathinaikos on an emotional night in the UEFA Conference League, where tributes honored the Greek side’s former defender George Baldock.
This was Panathinaikos' first home game since Baldock's passing on October 9 at the age of 31.
Before kick-off, Panathinaikos players warmed up in shirts featuring Baldock's squad number, 32, while Chelsea players also held up a shirt bearing his name and number. Fans from both teams raised placards with the number 32 in his memory.
David Bowie’s Starman played through the PA system, in reference to the former Sheffield United player’s nickname.
Players and fans pay tribute to George Baldock before Panathinaikos' game with Chelsea on Thursday
Image caption,Players and fans paid tribute to Panathinaikos’ George Baldock, who died earlier this month. He wore the number 32 shirt for the Greek side
Once the game got under way, Panathinaikos played with high energy and determination and Chelsea goalkeeper Filip Jorgensen had to be alert to keep out Tin Jedvaj’s second-minute header.
Visiting boss Enzo Maresca made 11 changes for the game and it took a while for Chelsea to settle, but they broke through with a well-worked move on the counter, Felix playing a one-two with Mykhailo Mudryk before sweeping in from close range.
Mudryk made it 2-0 soon after the break when he headed in Pedro Neto’s cross for his first goal of the season, and the Ukraine forward was the provider again for Felix to get his second, with his strike taking a deflection on its way into the net.
Christopher Nkunku wrapped up the comfortable win for Chelsea, firing home a confident penalty after Daniel Mancini’s foul.
Former Manchester United midfielder Facundo Pellistri swept in a consolation for the hosts, but it was ultimately a comfortable win for Chelsea, who maintain their 100% record in the league phase
