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We have a curated list of the most noteworthy news from all across the globe. With any subscription plan, you get access to exclusive articles that let you stay ahead of the curve.
We have a curated list of the most noteworthy news from all across the globe. With any subscription plan, you get access to exclusive articles that let you stay ahead of the curve.
We have a curated list of the most noteworthy news from all across the globe. With any subscription plan, you get access to exclusive articles that let you stay ahead of the curve.
Chelsea rounded off their shortened pre-season with an emphatic 4-1 victory over 10-man AC Milan, underlining their readiness for next weekend’s Premier League opener against FA Cup and Community Shield Winners Crystal Palace.
With just 28 days separating the end of their 2024/25 campaign — which concluded with FIFA Club World Cup glory — and this friendly, the Blues played their second warm-up match in 48 hours, having beaten Bayer Leverkusen 2-0 on Friday.
Quickfire Start, Early Red Card
The hosts made a blistering start. In the 10th minute, Reece James’ free-kick deflected in off Andrei Coubis for an own goal, and within two minutes, Joao Pedro escaped his marker to head in Pedro Neto’s curling cross.
Milan’s problems deepened on 18 minutes when Coubis was shown a straight red for hauling down Joao Pedro as he raced through on goal. Reduced to 10 men, the Serie A side offered little in attack, though Cole Palmer twice went close with set-pieces before half-time.
Second-Half Goals Flow
The only concern for Chelsea came early in the second half when defender Trevoh Chalobah rolled his ankle, just weeks after Levi Colwill’s ACL injury. Manager Enzo Maresca later confirmed it was only a precautionary substitution.
Milan briefly hit back through Youssouf Fofana, who beat Robert Sánchez at his near post, but Delap struck again with a composed first-time finish after a sublime through ball from Andrey Santos to seal the win.
Voices from the Bridge
Joao Pedro, now with two goals in as many pre-season games and five goals in as many games for Chelsea, praised Delap’s brace:
“I don’t want to say competition — it’s very good for Chelsea to have both strikers at a good level. Today he scored two, I’m very happy for him.”
Captain Reece James emphasised the positive mood in the camp:
“We finished last season really strong with two trophies. We’re world champions. We’ve had a tough two years, but everyone’s excited for this season.”
What’s next?
Chelsea will kick off their Premier League campaign next Sunday at home to Crystal Palace, aiming to build on a strong end to last season and a perfect pre-season record.
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