Maresca taking Conference League 'step by step' despite perfect start

Enzo Maresca says Chelsea are taking the Europa Conference League "step by step" as they look to round off a perfect group stage against Shamrock Rovers.

The Blues are the only team to have secured their place in the last 16 in the competition, having won all five of their games so far.

Chelsea have scored 21 goals in the Conference League and conceded just four, while they have won their last seven in all competitions going into Thursday's tie.

Maresca's side are given a 91.1% chance of winning the fixture by the Opta supercomputer, and are the favourites to win the tournament overall, but the Italian warned against complacency.

"We try to approach every game in the same way: to do our best and win the game," said Maresca.

"Today in football it is difficult to find a team that has no strengths. All the teams have something good, and some things we can try to work on and win the game.

"I watched four or five [Shamrock] games, and they are a good team. They try to defend as a block all together and play face-to-face with the other team. I'm quite convinced all the games are difficult.

Our first-ever match against an Irish side. pic.twitter.com/A0LFiW22f4
— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) December 18, 2024

"It depends on us, the way we take that game, and it can become easier or more difficult, but for sure it will be another game we try to win.

"I like to go step by step. The main target was the group stage, now it's almost there," he added.

"So, we will see after the next game because the target is always to go to the next round. Then we will see where we arrive."

Josh Acheampong signed a contract extension with Chelsea on Wednesday, committing his future to the club until 2029.

Maresca handed him his full debut in their 3-1 win over Astana last time out in the Conference League, with the 18-year-old making the most tackles (four) of any Chelsea player.

"I am very, very happy. With Josh, it has been quite clear, we had him in pre-season and I didn't know him personally but within two or three days, he really impressed me," Maresca said.

"Since pre-season, I have been trying to better understand the situation with him because of his contract and this kind of thing. Finally, the club has found an agreement with him, and we are all happy because we are all convinced, and we are all sure Josh can be a great player for this club."