"Enzo Maresca Explains Reece James’ UECL Final Bench Role in Chelsea’s Comeback Win Over Betis"

(15 words, concise and captures key details: Maresca’s explanation, James’ role, tournament, and the outcome.)

Enzo Marcher’s Chelsea Makes History with Stunning Comeback in European Final
Chelsea becomes the first club to win every European trophy after a thrilling 4-1 victory over Real Betis in the Conference League final.

Chelsea’s dramatic 4-1 comeback win over Real Betis in the Conference League final on Wednesday night marked a historic milestone, making them the first club to claim every major European trophy. Despite trailing 1-0 at halftime in Wrocław, Poland, the Blues roared back with a second-half masterclass, led by Cole Palmer’s creativity and a surprise substitution that changed the game.

Halftime Heroics
Manager Enzo Maresca made a bold move at halftime, bringing on captain Reece James to replace the injured Malo Gusto. James, who started on the bench, admitted the decision was tough: “It’s devastating not to start a final, but I had to be ready.” His introduction sparked Chelsea’s resurgence, with Palmer delivering two pinpoint crosses to set up Enzo Fernández and Nicolas Jackson. Jadon Sancho and Moisés Caicedo added late goals to seal the win.

Maresca explained his lineup choice: “I wanted to protect Reece, but he told me, ‘We’ll win this game.’ His leadership was crucial.”

Historic Achievement
The victory capped a whirlwind week for Chelsea, who secured Champions League qualification days earlier with a 1-0 win at Nottingham Forest. Maresca praised his team’s resilience: “We showed the mentality of a top club. Winning every European trophy is a legacy for our fans.”

Player Reactions

• Cole Palmer: “To make history like this is unbelievable. We fought for every trophy this season.”
• Levi Colwill: “The fans’ energy pushed us. We knew Betis would fade, and we took control.”
• Real Betis manager Manuel Pellegrini: “Injuries hurt us, but I’m proud of our fight. We’ll come back stronger.”

Chelsea’s triumph cements their place in football history, proving that even a rocky start can lead to a legendary finish.

Images: Chelsea players celebrating with the Conference League trophy; Reece James rallying teammates on the pitch; Cole Palmer’s assist to Enzo Fernández.

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Published: 23:45 BST, 28 May 2025 | Updated: 23:53 BST, 28 May 2025