Delap Double, Modrić Debuts

Chelsea wrapped up their pre-season campaign in emphatic fashion, defeating AC Milan 4–1 at Stamford Bridge on August 10, 2025. The match was a showcase of attacking precision, tactical control, and individual brilliance — with Liam Delap netting a brace and João Pedro continuing his fine form. The game also marked the long-awaited debut of Luka Modrić in Milan colors following his summer move from Real Madrid2.

 Key Match Moments

🧨 5′ — Own Goal Opens the Floodgates

Chelsea took the lead early when Andrei Coubis, Milan’s young defender, deflected a Reece James free-kick into his own net — a nightmare start for the Romanian on his senior debut2.

⚡ 8′ — João Pedro Doubles the Lead

Just three minutes later, João Pedro headed home a Pedro Neto cross, continuing his impressive pre-season run. His movement and finishing left Milan’s backline scrambling2.

🟥 19′ — Coubis Sent Off

Coubis’ day went from bad to worse as he was shown a straight red card for pulling down João Pedro, who was through on goal. Milan were reduced to 10 men with over 70 minutes left to play.

🎯 67′ — Delap Converts from the Spot

After Estevão was fouled in the box, Liam Delap stepped up and calmly slotted the penalty into the bottom corner, making it 3–02.

🔴 70′ — Fofana Consoles Milan

Youssouf Fofana pulled one back for Milan, finishing off a slick move initiated by Alexis Saelemaekers. It was a brief moment of hope for the visitors2.

🔥 90′ — Delap Seals the Win

In the final minute, Andrey Santos played a clever pass to Delap, who rifled in his second goal of the match with a confident first-time finish2.

 Tactical Breakdown: Chelsea’s Attacking Depth

Manager Enzo Maresca rotated his squad effectively, showcasing Chelsea’s depth and versatility.

• João Pedro and Delap both impressed, offering different profiles up front.
• Pedro Neto and Cole Palmer created chances with pace and precision.
• Estevão, despite limited minutes, won a penalty and showed flashes of brilliance.

Chelsea dominated possession (53%) and outshot Milan 19–11, with an xG of 2.66 compared to Milan’s 0.92.

🔴 Modrić’s Milan Debut

Luka Modrić made his AC Milan debut in the second half, entering to applause from both sets of fans. Though Milan were already trailing, Modrić showed glimpses of his trademark composure and vision, exchanging shirts post-match with Cole Palmer, who reportedly holds the Croatian legend in high regard.

 What’s Next

• Chelsea vs Crystal Palace – August 17, 2025 Chelsea begin their Premier League campaign at home, looking to carry their pre-season momentum into competitive action.
• AC Milan vs Bari – August 16, 2025 Milan will regroup for their Coppa Italia opener before starting their Serie A season against Cremonese on August 23.

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