A first-half brace, including a stunning solo effort from Ato Ampah, propelled Chelsea Under-21s into the knockout stages of the Premier League Cup with a 2-1 victory over Derby County at Kingsmeadow on Friday.The match started at a fast pace, with both teams knowing the importance of securing a positive result to continue their cup journey. The Blues took control early, with Donnell McNeillys low strike opening the scoring after Ampah pressured a Derby defender into a poor clearance, setting up McNeillys shot.Just before the break, Ampah doubled Chelseas lead with an impressive solo run, gliding past defenders before firing into the bottom corner to make it 2-0.In the second half, Derby fought back through Adisa Osayandes header from a corner, but Chelseas defense stood firm, ensuring the lead was maintained. Despite Derby’s efforts, the Blues held on to their advantage, securing a crucial win and a place in the tournaments knockout rounds.
Ato Ampah scores as Chelsea U-21s advance to Premier League Cup knockouts
