Chelsea Salvage 2-2 Draw Against Qarabag After Rocky Start

The match got off to a rocky start, with Romeo Lavia picking up yet another injury within the first five minutes, forcing Moises Caicedo to come on unexpectedly and cutting short his planned rest.

Despite the early setback, things seemed to be looking up when Estevao opened the scoring just 15 minutes in, giving hope that the game might settle in our favor.

That optimism was short-lived, however, as Qarabag struck twice in quick succession. The first came from sloppy defending, and the second followed a somewhat unlucky handball call against Jorrel Hato in the box. Qarabag’s pace on the wings exposed our makeshift defense, creating constant problems throughout the first half.

A triple substitution at halftime initially did little to change the momentum, with the home side still posing a threat. But then Alejandro Garnacho fired in a well-taken equalizer, and the match began to find a more familiar rhythm. Chelsea started to dominate possession, while Qarabag looked to hit on the break.

Despite several close chances from Delap, Estevao, Enzo, and Bounanotte, the winning goal remained elusive. Both teams had opportunities in stoppage time, but neither could convert, leaving the game level at the final whistle.