It was a 1-0 win, but it was enough. That’s all they needed.

Chelsea travelled to the City Ground to play Nottingham Forest in a crucial tie that would decide the fate of the Champions League race. Well, the outcome wouldn’t only decide their fate but that of Nottingham Forest, making the match a must-win for both teams.

Chelsea fielded a strong starting 11 even though they have the Conference League finals on Wednesday. The message from Maresca was clear: they were here for a win. 

The first half was a tough affair; both teams were being cautious and not allowing each other too much room to play, but in the second half, the game was open.

Chelsea were going to Forest, and Forest were proving themselves as well. Forest came close a few times, but it was Chelsea who got the break on the hour mark through Levi Colwill.

His goal was the difference between both sides at the end of 90 minutes, putting Chelsea firmly in 4th spot and guaranteeing them a place in the Champions League for the first time since 2022. The Blues will now focus on the Europa Conference League final against Real Betis which is in three days time.