Chelsea Achieves First Champions League Win Since 2023 With Resilient Defense Against Benfica

Chelsea secured a 1-0 Champions League victory over Benfica, marking their first clean sheet since late August and ending a streak of three consecutive defeats in the competition. The lone goal came from a first-half own goal by Benfica's Richard Rios, with Pedro Neto playing a key role in creating the chance. Neto highlighted the team's resilience and learning from their earlier defeat to Bayern Munich, emphasizing the importance of defensive stability in securing wins. Head coach Enzo Maresca expressed pride in the team's effort but stressed the need for defensive improvements, noting that conceding multiple goals in recent matches is unsustainable. Chelsea remains unbeaten at Stamford Bridge in the Champions League group stage with eight wins and four draws, reflecting progress yet room for growth. Both Neto and Maresca agreed that while the team showed quality and determination, controlling matches better and solidifying defensive performance are priorities moving forward.