Ugochukwu’s late equalizer rescue Chelsea in pre-season friendly against Inter
![Ugochukwu's late equalizer rescue Chelsea in pre-season friendly against Inter](/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/IMG_20240811_172057.jpg.webp)
Chelsea salvaged a 1-1 draw against Inter Milan at Stamford Bridge, thanks to a last-minute equalizer from Lesley Ugochukwu.
The match was a test for both teams as they prepare for their respective league campaigns.
Inter Milan took the lead in the first half when Marcus Thuram, capitalizing on a defensive lapse by Chelsea, fired a powerful left-footed shot into the top corner from just inside the box.
Despite missing several key players, including Lautaro Martinez and Hakan Calhanoglu, Inter managed to hold off Chelsea’s relentless attacks for much of the game.
![Ugochukwu's late equalizer rescue Chelsea in pre-season friendly against Inter](/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Marcus-Thuram-Inter-Chelsea-friendly-630x386-1.jpg.webp)
Chelsea’s new manager, Enzo Maresca, saw his side create several chances, but they were repeatedly denied by Inter’s goalkeeper Yann Sommer, who made a series of impressive saves.
Notably, Sommer stopped a deflected effort from Marc Guiu and later pulled off a stunning save to deny Christopher Nkunku’s overhead kick.
The Blues finally found a breakthrough in the dying minute of the game.
After Raheem Sterling was fouled near the by-line, Chelsea earned a free kick. Ugochukwu was in the right place to capitalize on a knockdown, blasting the ball past Sommer from close range to secure a draw for his side.
This match marked Maresca’s first game at Stamford Bridge, offering a glimpse into the potential of Chelsea’s squad under his management.