Premier League giants Chelsea stumbled in their first pre-season test, falling 2-1 to a slick Benfica side at Estádio da Luz. Despite Cole Palmer’s debut as Chelsea’s new #10, defensive lapses cost the Blues against the Portuguese champions – raising early concerns ahead of their Premier League opener against Manchester City.
Palmer Shines Amid Chelsea Struggles
The England international impressed despite defeat:
✅ Debut as #10: Orchestrated attacks with 91% pass accuracy
✅ Solo Goal: Dribbled past 3 defenders for 52nd-minute equalizer
✅ Creative Hub: 4 key passes, including disallowed Nkunku goal
❌ Defensive Workrate: Caught out during Benfica’s winner
Tactical Breakdown
| Aspect | Benfica | Chelsea |
|---|---|---|
| Formation | 4-2-3-1 (high press) | 4-3-3 (possession) |
| Possession | 43% | 57% |
| Shots on Target | 6/14 | 3/9 |
| Key Passes | 12 | 8 |
Goals That Decided
- Di María (38′): Curled free-kick past Petrovic
- Palmer (52′): Dribbled from midfield, slotted far corner
- Cabral (76′): Headed home unmarked from cross
Defensive Concerns for Chelsea
- Set-Piece Vulnerability: Di María exploited gap in wall
- Aerial Weakness: 6’3″ Cabral unchallenged for winner
- Fullback Exposure: Chilwell caught upfield repeatedly
“We switched off twice – unacceptable at this level,” admitted coach Enzo Maresca post-match.
Bright Spots for Blues
- Nkunku: Active in false-9 role (goal disallowed by VAR)
- Lavia: 93% pass accuracy in deep pivot role
- James: 70 minutes in injury comeback
Benfica’s Statement Win
- Di María: Masterclass in creative leadership
- Neves: Dominated midfield duel vs. Fernández
- Pre-Season Momentum: Extends unbeaten run to 7 games
What’s Next?
- Chelsea: Face Celtic in Detroit on July 24
- Priority Fixes: Set-piece drills, defensive coordination
- Transfer Watch: Pursuing Barcelona’s Frenkie de Jong intensifies
Summary: Benfica’s clinical finishing exposed Chelsea’s pre-season rust, despite Palmer’s dazzling individual display. With three weeks until the Premier League kickoff, Maresca must urgently address defensive cohesion – especially against aerial threats and dead balls. This friendly served as a reality check for Chelsea’s revamped squad.
Benfica beat Chelsea 2-1 in pre-season friendly! Palmer scores but defensive errors cost Blues. Analysis & implications for Premier League prep.