Chelsea's Champions League Hopes Hang by a Thread After Shocking Atalanta Defeat

Chelsea suffered a disappointing 2-1 defeat to Atalanta in the Champions League, with second-half goals from Gianluca Scamacca and Charles De Ketelaere overturning a lead initially secured by Joao Pedro. Manager Enzo Maresca emphasized the importance of winning the remaining group games to secure a top-eight finish.

Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca expressed frustration following his team's 2-1 loss to Atalanta in the Champions League on Tuesday. The defeat saw Chelsea relinquish a first-half lead, given by Joao Pedro, due to second-half strikes by Gianluca Scamacca and Charles De Ketelaere.

Maresca criticized his team's inability to capitalize on opportunities to extend their lead and claimed the goals they conceded were avoidable. The result leaves Chelsea trailing in the group standings, urging them to win their upcoming fixtures against Pafos and Napoli.

Failing to secure victories in those matches could see Chelsea miss out on direct qualification and face a playoff. "Our focus must shift to the next games to secure a top-eight position," Maresca insisted.