Jakarta: Chelsea secure 3-0 pre-season win over AC Milan
Chelsea’s Dominant Performance in Jakarta
Chelsea achieved a commanding 3-0 victory over AC Milan in Jakarta, Indonesia, securing the 2026 Indonesia Super Cup. The pre-season friendly saw Joao Pedro score twice, with Moises Caicedo adding a third goal. This result provided a confidence boost for the Blues under new manager Xabi Alonso, especially following recent friendly defeats.
The match, played in sweltering conditions, was largely controlled by Chelsea from the start. Despite the heat, both teams moved the ball sharply, and the supporters inside the stadium responded with enthusiasm to each attack. Chelsea created the first significant opportunity when Joao Pedro broke through on goal, though his shot was saved by Milan goalkeeper Lorenzo Torriani.
Rafael Leao, a Portugal international, posed a consistent threat for Milan in the initial stages of the game. His powerful runs helped Milan advance up the pitch, but he was effectively contained by Chelsea defenders Josh Acheampong and Wesley Fofana within the penalty area.
Goals Secure Indonesia Super Cup
The deadlock was broken in first-half stoppage time. Joao Pedro, who had missed earlier chances, converted an in-swinging corner from Moises Caicedo with a header from six yards out, putting Chelsea ahead. This goal came after Chelsea had come close to scoring earlier, including an intelligent run from Danny Welbeck and a shot from Pedro Neto that was saved by Torriani.
Chelsea extended their lead just moments into the second half. From their first attack after the restart, Pedro Neto delivered a cross to the far post, which Joao Pedro guided past Torriani for his second goal of the match. This quick succession of goals immediately after the interval proved pivotal.
The third goal arrived four minutes later, courtesy of Moises Caicedo. A corner from Romeo Lavia looped to Caicedo on the edge of the D, and the Chelsea captain struck a volley into the far corner with the outside of his right boot. This expertly taken goal further solidified Chelsea’s lead and reflected their dominant performance.
Continued Pressure and Upcoming Fixtures
Even after establishing a significant lead, Chelsea continued to press for more goals. Cole Palmer threatened with a shot from 18 yards that Torriani saved. Substitutes Geovany Quenda and Nicolas Jackson also made an impact, with Jackson rattling the post after a strong surge into the Milan penalty area. Quenda, a Portuguese winger, showcased neat footwork and created space for a shot, though it went wide.
Xabi Alonso’s side made further changes in the closing stages of the match. Aaron Anselmino replaced Jorrel Hato, while Reggie Watson, Mykhailo Mudryk, and Estevao were introduced for Caicedo, Palmer, and Joao Pedro, respectively. In stoppage time, Mamadou Sarr came on for Fofana. The match concluded with Chelsea lifting the Indonesia Super Cup in front of over 40,000 supporters at the GBK Stadium.
This victory marks a positive turn for Chelsea following earlier friendly losses to Tottenham and Juventus. The team’s starting lineup for the match included Robert Sanchez in goal, a defensive line of Josh Acheampong, Wesley Fofana, Jorrel Hato, and Marco Palestra. Moises Caicedo and Romeo Lavia partnered in midfield, while Cole Palmer, Joao Pedro, Pedro Neto, and Danny Welbeck formed the attack.
Chelsea will conclude their pre-season tour with a match against Malaysian champions Johor Darul Ta’zim on Sunday. Following this, they will return to London for a fixture against Real Sociedad at Stamford Bridge. The Blues are scheduled to begin their 2026-27 Premier League campaign against Fulham on 24 August.
Source: bbc.com
