Chelsea secured a 3-0 victory against AC Milan in Jakarta, marking an improved performance under manager Xabi Alonso. The pre-season match saw Joao Pedro score twice, contributing significantly to the win.
The match, held at GBK Stadium, was part of Chelsea‘s summer tour. This result follows consecutive pre-season defeats for the Blues, including a 1-2 loss to Tottenham and a 0-1 defeat to Juventus.
First Half Dominance and Set-Piece Impact
Chelsea‘s tactical approach in Jakarta saw them utilise a 3-4-3 formation, a departure from the hybrid 4-2-3-1 and 3-4-3 seen in earlier pre-season games. This formation proved effective against the Serie A side. The impact of new set-piece coach Austin McPhee was evident, with Chelsea scoring from corners.
The opening goal came just before half-time, with Joao Pedro heading home a delivery from Moises Caicedo. This goal was a result of Joao Pedro peeling away from Milan goalkeeper Lorenzo Torriani. Earlier in the half, Pedro Neto had forced Torriani into a save with a curling effort.
Marco Palestra, playing at left wing-back, was noted for his performance. His versatility and ability with both feet provided an additional threat, and he was involved in creating chances, including setting up Danny Welbeck in the first half.
Second Half Goals and Missed Opportunities
The second half began with immediate impact from Chelsea. Within a minute of the restart, Joao Pedro scored his second goal, converting Pedro Neto‘s in-swinging cross from close range. This goal capitalised on changes made by Milan at half-time.
Shortly after, Moises Caicedo added a third goal for Chelsea, volleying home from the edge of the box after another corner. Caicedo, who wore the captain’s armband, also played a crucial role in midfield alongside Romeo Lavia, with both players demonstrating significant responsibility in their roles.
Despite the three goals, Chelsea had further opportunities to extend their lead. Substitutes Geovany Quenda and Nicolas Jackson both hit the woodwork. Quenda struck the near post with a powerful effort after a run into the Milan area, while Jackson also hit the post following a fine run. Estevao also had a chance, attempting to lift the ball over Torriani.
Player Performances and Tactical Insights
Several Chelsea players impressed during the match. Marco Palestra‘s performance at wing-back highlighted his versatility, offering threat on either side of the pitch. His ability to turn inside or out added to Chelsea‘s attacking options.
The effectiveness of set pieces was a notable aspect of Chelsea‘s play. The team, which scored 10 goals from corners in the previous Premier League season, managed to score two from corners in this single match against AC Milan, suggesting an early impact from Austin McPhee.
Xabi Alonso‘s preferred 3-4-3 formation was fully implemented, with Moises Caicedo and Romeo Lavia excelling in midfield. Caicedo frequently dropped into the back three to initiate build-up play, while Lavia effectively marked Luka Modric, limiting his influence on the game.
The victory provides a morale boost for Chelsea after their recent pre-season defeats. The match also allowed most of the strong starting line-up to gain over an hour of playing time in Indonesia. Nicolas Jackson, despite not scoring, had a lively cameo from the bench, creating chances and hitting the woodwork.
Chelsea‘s starting XI for the match included Robert Sanchez in goal, with a back four of Marco Palestra, Josh Acheampong, Wesley Fofana, and Jorrel Hato. The midfield featured Romeo Lavia and captain Moises Caicedo. The attack comprised Cole Palmer, Joao Pedro, Pedro Neto, and Danny Welbeck leading the frontline. The next fixture for Chelsea is against Johor Darul Ta’zim in Johor on August 9.
Source: skysports.com