Cole Palmer provided a much-needed spark for Chelsea in what was otherwise a disappointing evening, as the Blues suffered a 3-1 defeat to Bayern Munich in their Champions League group stage opener. The young England international showcased his quality with a stunning strike that briefly restored hope for his side. His clinical finish not only reduced the deficit but also marked a personal milestone, registering his 45th Chelsea goal in his 100th appearance for the club. Unfortunately for him, a second goal in the closing stages was disallowed for offside, denying Chelsea a late lifeline.
The clash at the Allianz Arena started on a frustrating note for Enzo Maresca’s men, as Bayern capitalized on an own goal from Trevoh Chalobah. Michael Olise’s pinpoint cross forced the defender into a mistake, putting the hosts in front early on. Soon after, Harry Kane doubled Bayern’s lead from the penalty spot after Moises Caicedo’s rash challenge on the England captain. Chelsea looked to be in real trouble, but Palmer’s brilliant strike just before the half-hour mark reignited belief, finishing off a swift counterattack with a superb shot into the top corner.
Despite the momentum shift, Chelsea struggled to maintain consistent pressure. Bayern’s experience and composure proved decisive, particularly when Kane pounced again in the second half. A careless giveaway by Malo Gusto gifted possession to Bayern, and the former Tottenham striker needed no second invitation, calmly slotting home his second of the night to seal the victory for the German champions.
For Chelsea, individual performances offered mixed outcomes. Goalkeeper Robert Sanchez pulled off an important stop to deny Olise, while Marc Cucurella impressed with his determination, even amid jeers from opposition supporters. Caicedo, though guilty of conceding the penalty, redeemed himself with tireless work in midfield. However, others fell short. Pedro Neto failed to make the most of the space and opportunities created for him, and Enzo Fernandez was largely anonymous in his advanced midfield role.
The defeat leaves Maresca with plenty to ponder. His post-match comments made clear his dissatisfaction with the team’s inability to retain possession and the lapses in concentration that directly led to Bayern’s goals. Nevertheless, the Italian coach can take encouragement from certain aspects of the performance, particularly the energy displayed by the younger players and Palmer’s consistency in stepping up during key moments.
With five debutants in their Champions League starting XI, Chelsea showed glimpses of promise, especially through their right side where Gusto frequently found space in behind Bayern’s back line. Though the result was disappointing, there is reason for optimism as the Blues continue their European campaign.
Chelsea will now regroup and turn their attention to their next group match, a crucial home fixture against Benfica in two weeks’ time. Improvement will be necessary if they are to collect points and keep their hopes alive of progressing. If Maresca can tighten up his side’s mistakes and build around Palmer’s creativity and finishing ability, Chelsea still have every chance of making their mark in the competition.
