Chelsea’s coach Enzo Maresca expressed his commitment to addressing his team’s “tendency” to allow too many goals following a 2-1 loss to a youthful Real Madrid squad in Charlotte, marking the conclusion of their United States tour.
Real Madrid secured the win with first-half goals from Dani Ceballos and Brahim Diaz, despite a header from Noni Madueke, as the Blues continued to demonstrate defensive frailties.
In their five pre-season matches in America, Chelsea has conceded a total of 12 goals, suffering two heavy defeats of 4-0 and managing to secure just one victory.
Maresca highlighted that he had discussed the “very high” defensive line with his players during one of their initial meetings, noting that this issue is a “habit” carried over from last season.
Ceballos netted the opener in the 19th minute after reacting to a deflected shot from Lucas Vazquez.
In the 27th minute, Diaz skillfully rounded new goalkeeper Filip Jorgensen to score from a narrow angle, marking Jorgensen’s first start at the Bank of America Stadium.
Chelsea managed to reduce the deficit with Madueke’s goal, heading in Enzo Fernandez’s cross during the 39th minute.
Maresca opted not to make any substitutions at half-time, yet his adjusted lineup appeared more stable as they played through a lackluster second half, with the only notable chance falling to Christopher Nkunku, who failed to convert a one-on-one opportunity.
Despite missing several star players, Carlo Ancelotti’s team saw Vinicius Jr shine in the absence of Jude Bellingham and Kylian Mbappe, both of whom are anticipated to train as soon as tomorrow, as both teams headed back to Europe right after the match.
Chelsea’s next challenge is against Inter Milan in their final friendly at Stamford Bridge on Sunday, leading up to their Premier League opener at home against champions Manchester City on August 18.
Meanwhile, Madrid will face Atalanta in the UEFA Super Cup in Warsaw on Wednesday, August 14, an event that pits the Champions League winners against the Europa League winners, serving as a prelude to European competitions.
