Chelsea stun Napoli 3-2 to secure Champions League last 16 spot

Joao Pedro's brace helps Liam Rosenior's side overcome first-half deficit

Jan. 28, 2026 at 4:55pm

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Chelsea came from behind to defeat Napoli 3-2 in a thrilling Champions League clash, securing a top-eight finish and automatic qualification to the last 16. Enzo Fernandez's early penalty put the visitors ahead, but Napoli responded with goals from Antonio Vergara and Rasmus Hojlund to take a 2-1 lead. Joao Pedro then scored twice in the second half, including the winner with eight minutes remaining, to ensure Chelsea's progression.

Why it matters

This result is a significant statement win for Chelsea and their new manager Liam Rosenior, who has now guided the team to automatic qualification for the Champions League knockout stage. It also ends Napoli's impressive unbeaten run at home and eliminates them from the competition.

The details

Chelsea took an early lead through Enzo Fernandez's penalty, but Napoli soon took control of the game. Antonio Vergara equalized with a superb individual goal, and Rasmus Hojlund put the hosts ahead just before half-time. Rosenior made a key substitution at the break, bringing on Cole Palmer, and it was Joao Pedro who drew Chelsea level with a wonderful strike from 25 yards. The Brazilian then scored the winner late on, latching onto a pass from Palmer to secure the three points.

  • Enzo Fernandez scored the opening goal for Chelsea in the 19th minute.
  • Antonio Vergara equalized for Napoli in the 33rd minute.
  • Rasmus Hojlund put Napoli ahead in the 43rd minute.
  • Joao Pedro scored the equalizer for Chelsea in the 64th minute.
  • Joao Pedro scored the winning goal for Chelsea in the 82nd minute.

The players

Joao Pedro

The Brazilian striker scored twice in the second half to secure the win for Chelsea.

Liam Rosenior

The Chelsea manager made a key substitution at half-time that helped turn the game in his side's favor.

Enzo Fernandez

The Argentine midfielder opened the scoring for Chelsea with an early penalty.

Antonio Vergara

The Napoli midfielder scored the equalizer with a superb individual goal.

Rasmus Hojlund

The Danish striker put Napoli ahead just before half-time.

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What they’re saying

“We must have belief in ourselves and our ability to win these big games. This was a massive result for us.”

— Joao Pedro, Chelsea striker

“I'm proud of the way the team responded in the second half. We showed great character to come from behind and get the win.”

— Liam Rosenior, Chelsea manager

What’s next

Chelsea will now have a break before their next Champions League match in the round of 16, which will take place in March. They will also have a chance to rest and prepare for their upcoming Premier League fixtures, including a home game against West Ham on January 31.

The takeaway

This victory is a significant boost for Chelsea and Liam Rosenior, as it secures their place in the Champions League knockout stage and provides them with much-needed momentum heading into the second half of the season. The team's ability to come from behind and win against a tough opponent like Napoli demonstrates their resilience and the progress they have made under Rosenior's leadership.