Chelsea struggle as Celtic claim 4-1 win in pre-season clash
- Chelsea’s pre-season woes continued as they fell 4-1 to Celtic, leaving new manager Enzo Maresca still searching for his first win.
Chelsea started the match with promise but quickly found themselves on the defensive against Brendan Rodgers’ side.
Matt O’Riley opened the scoring for Celtic, who were playing their fifth pre-season game compared to Chelsea’s second.
The Scottish champions exploited Chelsea’s high defensive line, with their second goal coming from a well-executed short corner.
O’Riley set up Furuhashi Kyogo for an easy tap-in at the far post.
Despite a better performance from Chelsea after the break, their defense faltered late in the second half.
Benoit Badiashile’s mistake gifted the ball to Luis Palma, who turned and scored.
Minutes later, Mikey Johnston capitalized on another defensive lapse, racing in behind to make it 4-0.
Christopher Nkunku provided a consolation for Chelsea, converting a late penalty won by Raheem Sterling.
However, notable performances included Nkunku looking sharp, while Badiashile struggled defensively and Mykhailo Mudryk missed another opportunity to impress.