Umeh finds the net as Benfica slump to 5-2 defeat against Chelsea in UEFA Youth League

Republic of Ireland U18 international of Nigerian descent Jayden Umeh netted his first ever goal in the UEFA Youth League on Tuesday, but it counted for nothing as Benfica slumped to a 5-2 defeat to two-time winners Chelsea at Cobham.

Umeh was among three Nigerian players handed starting berths, along with Chelsea duo Landon Emenalo and Tayo Subuloye, while 2025 Flying Eagles invitee Chizaram Ezenwata was an unused substitute for the second straight game in the competition.

Chelsea nearly struck early when Emenalo's corner found Subuloye, whose towering header flashed just wide, setting the tone for the Blues bright start.

Shumaira Mheuka gave Chelsea the lead from the spot in the 23rd minute after Jesse Derry was fouled, before Umeh equalized for the visitors.

A quarter of an hour to halftime, Chelsea's lead was wiped out after just seven minutes in front as the Irish-Nigerian forward buried the ball from close range after great work from Fernandes.

Mheuka restored Chelsea’s advantage with another penalty in the 55th minute, then completed his hat-trick with a towering header from Mahdi Nicoll-Jazuli’s cross at minute 64. 

Daniel Banjaqui pulled one back but substitutes Ryan Kavuma-McQueen and Kobe Barbour, combining with Leo Cardoso, sealed an emphatic win. 

Umeh has two goals from eight appearances in all competitions for Benfica youth teams this season.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel

Photo Credit: slbenfica.pt

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