Chelsea won their last friendly match before the start of the 2025–26 season by a score of 4-1 against AC Milan, who only had 10 players. Three of Chelsea’s goals came from summer recruits Liam Delap and João Pedro.
Modrić Makes Milan Debut
The game was played at Chelsea’s home field, Stamford Bridge. This summer, Croatian star Luka Modrić left Real Madrid, one of the biggest teams in La Liga, after 13 years to join AC Milan on a free transfer. He officially made his debut in the Rossoneri shirt when he came on as a replacement in the second half.
Even though Milan had a renowned presence on the field, they couldn’t avoid a significant loss. Chelsea quickly took a 2-0 lead, with Kubis scoring an own goal in the 5th minute and João Pedro doubling the lead just three minutes later.
Kubis’ Own Goal and Red Card Leave Milan in Trouble
Kubis gave Chelsea another goal just 13 minutes after his own. He was the last guy in defense, and he took down Pedro, which led the referee to give him a straight red card. This left Milan with 10 men to fight.
In the 67th minute, Chelsea’s new player Estêvão was fouled in the box, and Delap scored the penalty to make it 3-0.
Fofana of Milan scored in the 70th minute, but Delap scored his second goal in the last few minutes after getting a great pass from Santos. The final score was 4-1.
Palmer and Modrić Exchange Shirts
After the game, the Chelsea players showed the home fans their Europa League and FIFA Club World Cup trophies. Cole Palmer, a rising star in Chelsea’s midfield, then traded shirts with Modrić, a legendary midfielder, showing that they respected and admired each other.
Maresca Compliments His Strikers
João Pedro has been one of the best players for Chelsea in the preseason. He has scored five goals in five games since signing in July.
Pedro commented on his competition with Delap, “I wouldn’t call it a competition.” It’s great for a club like Chelsea to have two strikers who are in good form. He didn’t score in the prior game, but he did score twice today. I’m pretty delighted for him.”
Head coach Enzo Maresca also said he was pleased with both forwards: “They are our strikers, and we need them to keep scoring all season. We’re delighted with both of them. They should play without stress or pressure; if they do, I’m confident they’ll score even more. I can’t wait to see them continue playing well.”
Since the end of last season, this was Chelsea’s eleventh game of the summer. They played seven games in the Club World Cup and won six of them, losing only one. The Blues have won eight of their last nine games, including two friendlies, which indicates that they are in good shape going into the season.
Chelsea’s first game in the Premier League will be at home against Crystal Palace on Sunday, August 17. Crystal Palace won the Community Shield by beating Liverpool, the champions from last season.
