Former Barcelona talent Marc Guiu played a key role in Chelsea’s 3-1 victory over Astana, securing their place in the UEFA Conference League knockout stages.
Despite challenging conditions, including a grueling 3,600-mile trip to Kazakhstan and freezing -11°C temperatures, Chelsea’s rotated squad dominated the first half with three quick goals.
Guiu, an 18-year-old Spanish youth international, opened the scoring in the 14th minute with an impressive solo effort.
Moments later, his shot from Pedro Neto’s cross was deflected in by Aleksandr Marochkin for Chelsea’s second. Renato Veiga headed in the third just before halftime.
Astana’s Marin Tomasov gave the home fans a brief highlight with a stunning strike just before the break.
However, Chelsea controlled the second half, maintaining their lead without pushing for more.
The win solidifies Chelsea’s position at the top of the league phase with 15 points from five games.
They will wrap up this stage against Shamrock Rovers on December 19.
