Real Madrid’s pre-season tour of the United States has been a resounding success, with the Spanish giants securing a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Chelsea in the final match of their American adventure. The win was sealed thanks to a wonderful goal from Brahim Diaz, who rounded new Chelsea goalkeeper Filip Jorgensen to score from a tight angle past the Dane, who made his first start at the Bank of America Stadium.
The match was a closely contested affair, with both teams creating chances in the first half. However, it was Real Madrid who drew first blood, with Dani Ceballos following in a deflected Lucas Vazquez shot to finish in the 19th minute. Diaz’s goal in the 27th minute gave Real Madrid a 2-0 lead, and although Chelsea pulled one back through Noni Madueke’s header in the 39th minute, the Spanish side held on for the win.
The victory was a welcome boost for Real Madrid, who have been without a host of star players on their pre-season tour. However, the likes of Vinicius Jr, who excelled in the absence of Jude Bellingham and Kylian Mbappe, have shown that they are more than capable of stepping up to the plate. Mbappe and Bellingham are expected to train as early as tomorrow, and their return will undoubtedly strengthen the Real Madrid squad.
Chelsea’s Defensive Woes Continue
Chelsea’s defeat to Real Madrid was their fourth in five pre-season games, and the Blues have now conceded 12 goals in those matches. The defensive line has been a major concern for Chelsea, with the team struggling to cope with the pace and movement of their opponents. Manager Enzo Maresca has identified the issue and is working to address it, but it remains to be seen whether the team can tighten up at the back in time for the start of the Premier League season.
Maresca has been attempting to implement his new system and style, but the team has been guilty of making individual mistakes that have led directly to goals conceded. The Italian has also been using his matches as “training sessions”, without time to do tactical work in between all the travel and the five matches in 14 days in the high heat of the United States. However, Maresca is confident that the team can resolve their defensive issues before the start of the season.
Chelsea’s High Defensive Line a Concern
One of the main issues for Chelsea has been their high defensive line, which has been exploited by opponents time and time again. Maresca has acknowledged the problem and is working to address it, but it remains to be seen whether the team can adapt to a new system. The Italian has stated that the team is not working on defensive lines so high, and is instead looking to drop the defensive line a little bit to gain an advantage.
The high defensive line has been a habit for Chelsea, and it is something that the team has struggled with in the past. Last season, the Blues conceded 63 goals in the league, an unwanted club record during the Premier League era. Maresca is aware of the issue and is working to resolve it, but it will undoubtedly take time for the team to adapt to a new system.
Chelsea’s Options Up Front
Chelsea’s defeat to Real Madrid highlighted the team’s lack of options up front. The Blues have been linked with a number of strikers in recent weeks, including Atletico Madrid’s Samu Omorodion and Napoli’s Victor Osimhen. However, it remains to be seen whether the team will be able to secure the services of either player.
In the meantime, Chelsea will have to rely on the likes of Nicolas Jackson and Christopher Nkunku to lead the line. Jackson has shown promising signs in pre-season, but he was quiet against Real Madrid. Nkunku, on the other hand, has looked good in a midfield role, but he may be required to play up front in the absence of other options.
Real Madrid’s Pre-Season Tour a Success
Real Madrid’s pre-season tour of the United States has been a resounding success, with the team securing three wins from their five matches. The Spanish giants have been without a host of star players on their tour, but the likes of Vinicius Jr have shown that they are more than capable of stepping up to the plate.
The tour has also given Real Madrid the opportunity to test their new signings, including Brahim Diaz, who scored a wonderful goal against Chelsea. The team has also been able to work on their tactics and formations, and they will undoubtedly be better prepared for the start of the season as a result.
Vinicius Jr Impresses on Pre-Season Tour
Vinicius Jr has been one of the standout players for Real Madrid on their pre-season tour. The Brazilian winger has shown his class and skill on the pitch, and he has been a constant threat to opposing teams. Vinicius Jr has also been praised for his work rate and his ability to press and make runs behind the opposition defense.
Vinicius Jr’s performance against Chelsea was particularly impressive, as he created several chances for his team and was a constant threat to the Blues’ defense. The Brazilian winger is undoubtedly one of the most exciting attackers in the world, and he will be a key player for Real Madrid in the upcoming season.
Real Madrid’s Options Up Front
Real Madrid have a number of options up front, including Vinicius Jr, Brahim Diaz, and Karim Benzema. The team has also been linked with a number of strikers in recent weeks, including Kylian Mbappe and Jude Bellingham. However, it remains to be seen whether the team will be able to secure the services of either player.
In the meantime, Real Madrid will have to rely on the likes of Vinicius Jr and Brahim Diaz to lead the line. The two players have shown that they are more than capable of stepping up to the plate, and they will undoubtedly be key players for the team in the upcoming season.