Djurgården Proud Despite UECL Semi-Final Exit

Djurgården's historic UEFA Europa Conference League run ends with a 5-1 aggregate loss to Chelsea in the semi-finals, but the team is proud of their achievement and looks forward to building for next season.

Djurgarden's historic run in the UEFA Conference League ended with a 5-1 aggregate loss to Chelsea in the semi-finals. Despite the defeat, captain Jacob Une and coach Jani Honkavaara felt immense pride in the team's achievement. Chelsea's Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall scored late in the second half at Stamford Bridge, dashing Djurgarden's hopes of a comeback.

Djurgården captain Jacob Une said, “Of course, a bit disappointed, although we knew beforehand that it would be tough coming here – especially with the result we had in Stockholm.” He added, “Some disappointment, but on the other hand, you have to be realistic. In the end, I'm just super-proud of what we accomplished.”

Djurgården captain Jacob Une praised his team's unity, saying, “I think we did a good job covering each other's backs. Unfortunately, we didn't get a goal, but looking at the work and the spirit from everyone – as a captain – I'm super-proud of the work that we put out there.”

Head coach Honkavaara also lamented his side's failure to find the net, “We were missing the last touch a bit. We got into shooting positions, but then Chelsea's quality meant they were always able to block the shot, so good-looking situations were a bit harmless in the end.”

“I'm really glad with what we did in the second half; we found one more gear. Of course, we could always have done better. Maybe scoring a goal would have changed the game and made Chelsea a bit nervous, but we were unfortunately unable to do that. Chelsea showed the quality they have.”

A brilliant campaign from Djurgården 👏

The first Swedish team to reach the semi-finals of a major men’s UEFA competition since Göteborg in the 1986/87 UEFA Cup 💪#UECL | @DIF_Fotboll pic.twitter.com/PAQergXhDg

— UEFA Conference League (@Conf_League) May 9, 2025

Djurgården coach Jani Honkavaara was delighted by the team's fans, who packed the away end and took over sections of the home stands, creating a lively atmosphere. Honkavaara said, “I think everybody was a bit disappointed after the game, but seeing our fans' reaction, I feel quite calm now and I have a smile on my face, because we just have to be really proud of what we did as a team. We did it together with our fans, this long journey. I wouldn't change it.”

Djurgården's journey in the UEFA Europa Conference League began in July, with the team entering the second qualifying round. Coach Jani Honkavara, who took over in December, praised the previous coaches, saying, “It's been historic. There were three coaches before me during the campaign, and they also deserve credit for this. I'm just glad to have been part of it.”

Djurgården captain Jacob Une highlighted the significance of the team's run, saying, “We've never reached the semi-finals in a European competition before, so it's been a really good experience for us. A lot of young guys getting experience as well. We'll build from that and look forward to next season.” Chelsea advances to the UECL Final against Real Betis.