Chelsea Football Club etched their name in Champions League history on Wednesday, October 22, 2025, becoming the first team to have three teenagers score in a single match in the competition. In a resounding 5-1 victory against Ajax at Stamford Bridge, Marc Guiu (19), Estevao Willian (18), and Tyrique George (19) all found the back of the net, showcasing the immense talent emerging from the Blues' academy.
The victory was particularly sweet for manager Enzo Maresca, who made ten changes to the starting lineup from their previous match, demonstrating his faith in the club's youth system. Besides the three teenage goalscorers, Jorrel Hato (19), Facundo Buonanotte (20), and Jamie Gittens (21) were also included in the starting XI, resulting in an average age of 22 years and 163 days, the youngest of any team in the Champions League this season.
Chelsea took full advantage of an early red card issued to Ajax captain Kenneth Taylor. Marc Guiu opened the scoring, tapping in from close range after a header from Wesley Fofana. Moises Caicedo doubled the lead with a deflected shot from outside the box. Ajax briefly threatened a comeback with a penalty converted by Wout Weghorst, but Chelsea quickly regained control. Enzo Fernandez scored from the penalty spot after Weghorst fouled him, and Estevao Willian confidently converted another penalty after being fouled by Youri Baas. Tyrique George, who came on as a second-half substitute, completed the scoring with a deflected shot from range.
Maresca expressed his pride in the young players and the club's strategy of trusting youth. He noted that Guiu and George had already scored for Chelsea in previous competitions, highlighting their existing experience. He said, "It's a special night for the club, for the young players,". He also emphasized that the club's youth strategy extends beyond new signings, including players from the academy.
The win was Chelsea's second consecutive Champions League victory after losing their opening match to Bayern Munich. The Blues' youthful lineup and dominant performance have boosted their confidence and solidified Maresca's belief in the club's young talent. The team's performance also marked a significant moment for Reggie Walsh, who became Chelsea's youngest-ever Champions League player. Chelsea's fans have much to be excited about as the club's future appears bright with such promising young stars emerging onto the scene.
