AFCON 2025
Chelsea wrapped up their pre-season preparations with an emphatic 4–1 victory over AC Milan at Stamford Bridge, lifting the VisitMalta Weekender trophy and sending a clear signal of intent ahead of the new Premier League campaign.
The match began in perfect fashion for the Blues, with captain Reece James whipping in a dangerous free-kick that Milan defender Andrei Coubis diverted into his own net inside five minutes.
Chelsea doubled their lead soon after when Pedro Neto delivered a pinpoint cross for João Pedro, who nodded home his fifth goal in as many games.
Milan’s evening went from bad to worse in the 18th minute when Coubis, already at fault for the opener, was shown a straight red card for bringing down João Pedro as the last man. Reduced to ten, the visitors struggled to cope with Chelsea’s relentless tempo.
The second half saw summer signing Liam Delap make his mark. The striker calmly converted a penalty midway through the half before Youssouf Fofana pulled one back for Milan. Any hopes of a comeback were dashed deep into stoppage time, however, when Delap struck again to seal his brace and Chelsea’s fourth.
While Moises Caicedo dominated the midfield and James impressed at both ends, there was a sour note for Enzo Maresca’s side as Trevoh Chalobah limped off with an injury, adding to defensive concerns following Levi Colwill’s recent ACL blow.
With the win, Chelsea close out pre-season unbeaten and full of confidence ahead of next weekend’s Premier League opener against Crystal Palace.
