Lesley Ugochukwu scores late as Chelsea draw with Inter Milan

 Lesley Ugochukwu scored a considerable 90th-minute balance as Chelsea salvaged a 1-1 draw against Inter Milan on Sunday in their final preseason friendly before the 2024-25 Premier League season.

 

The match at Stamford Bridge finished a challenging warm up for Chelsea during which they suffered defeats to Real Madrid, Manchester City and Celtic and were held to a draw by League One side Wrexham. Their only win came opposed to Club America.

Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca used the chance to give playing time to four new signings. Marc Guiu and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall started the match while Renato Veiga and Tosin Adarabioyo were initiated at halftime.

Inter Milan took the lead in the 25th minute when Marcus Thuram fired a left-footed shot into the top corner after being construct by Joaquín Correa. Despite the setback, Chelsea dominated the first half, with Malo Gusto and Guiu missing opportunities to equalize.

At halftime, Chelsea bring to light their latest acquisition, Pedro Neto, who signed a seven-year agreement with the club. In the second half, Chelsea continued to press for a goal, with Christopher Nkunku's athletic effort being rescued by Inter goalkeeper Yann Sommer and Levi Colwill hitting the post from a tight angle.

Just as it appeared Chelsea might be heading for another beat, Ugochukwu found the back of the net with a half-volley after Cole Palmer's free-kick distracted to him on the border of the six-yard box.

Chelsea will lead off their Premier League campaign next Sunday against reigning champions Manchester City.