‘We’re still fighting’ says Conte as Chelsea keep top four bid alive

London (AFP) – Antonio Conte warned Chelsea’s top four rivals that his side will fight to the finish as the race to qualify for the Champions League goes down to the wire.

Olivier Giroud boosted Chelsea’s bid to snatch a top four place as the France striker sealed a 1-0 win over Liverpool that brought the Champions League finalists back down to earth.

Giroud’s first-half header at Stamford Bridge lifted fifth-placed Chelsea to within two points of fourth-placed Tottenham in the race to qualify for next season’s Champions League. 

“Usually when you play a must-win game it is not easy because it’s normal to be a bit nervous,” Blues boss Conte said.

“We had the will to win, to keep the hope alive that we can get a place in the Champions League. 

“I don’t know if this will be enough at the end of the season but we have to try.”

In a dramatic conclusion to the top four battle, Chelsea, who are three points behind Liverpool, host struggling Huddersfield on Wednesday and Tottenham face Newcastle the same evening.

On the final day of the season next Sunday, Chelsea head to Newcastle and Tottenham entertain Leicester.

“It’s important to face this situation with a lot of pride and show we are still alive,” Conte said. 

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