Chelsea Football Club etched their name into football history with a resounding 4-1 victory over Real Betis in the 2024 UEFA Europa Conference League final, a triumph that cemented their status as the only club to conquer all four major UEFA club competitions: the Champions League, the Europa League, the Cup Winners’ Cup, and the newly established Conference League. This historic achievement marks a pinnacle in Chelsea’s rich European pedigree, adding another glittering trophy to their already impressive cabinet. The emphatic win against Betis not only secured the Conference League title but also underscored Chelsea’s dominance on the European stage, showcasing their ability to compete and succeed across different levels of continental competition.
The victory at the Conference League final brought an end to a remarkable reign of Spanish clubs in European finals. Prior to Chelsea’s triumph, Spanish teams had enjoyed an unprecedented streak of 19 consecutive victories against non-Spanish opposition in European finals, a run that stretched back to 2001. Chelsea’s dismantling of Betis not only secured the trophy but also disrupted this impressive Spanish dominance, signaling a potential shift in the balance of power within European football. The win serves as a testament to the evolving landscape of the game and the emergence of new contenders capable of challenging the established hierarchy.
Cole Palmer, a key figure in Chelsea’s attacking prowess, further distinguished himself with two assists in the final. This achievement places him in an elite group of players who have recorded multiple assists in a major European final since the 2016/17 season. Palmer joins the ranks of Marcelo and Koke, both accomplished playmakers who achieved this feat across the Champions League, Europa League, and Conference League. Palmer’s contribution highlights the importance of creative midfielders in unlocking defenses and creating scoring opportunities in high-pressure situations. His performance signifies the emergence of young talent capable of influencing crucial matches on the biggest stage.
Chelsea’s victory cemented their place as the fourth club to win the UEFA Europa Conference League since its inception in 2022. This relatively new competition has quickly gained prominence within the European football calendar, providing a platform for emerging clubs and established giants alike to compete for continental glory. Chelsea’s triumph underscores the competitiveness of the tournament and the desire of top clubs to secure every available trophy. Their success adds further prestige to the Conference League and strengthens its position within the UEFA club competition structure.
The 2024 season witnessed a remarkable treble of European and domestic success for London clubs. Crystal Palace captured the FA Cup, Tottenham Hotspur claimed the Europa League title, and Chelsea’s Conference League triumph completed the London trifecta. This collective achievement highlights the strength and depth of football in the English capital, demonstrating the ability of London clubs to compete at the highest level both domestically and internationally. The successes of these three clubs signify a resurgence of English football and a return to prominence on the European stage.
Chelsea’s Europa Conference League triumph completes a unique and historic set of major UEFA club trophies. Having previously won the Champions League twice, the Europa League twice, and the Cup Winners’ Cup twice, Chelsea now stands alone as the only club to have conquered all four major UEFA competitions. This achievement speaks volumes about the club’s sustained success and ambition across different eras of European football. The completion of this historic quadruple cements Chelsea’s legacy as a true giant of the European game and highlights their ability to adapt and thrive in a constantly evolving football landscape. This remarkable feat sets a new benchmark for other clubs to aspire to and solidifies Chelsea’s place in football history.
