Chelsea fight back in Baku after Qarabag scare
In a dramatic Champions League night at the Tofiq Bahramov Stadium, Chelsea were pushed to the brink by Qarabag before a late intervention from Alejandro Garnacho salvaged a 2-2 draw. The result leaves Enzo Maresca’s side with questions about their defensive organization, after they let a two-goal advantage slip away in a single half.
How the game unfolded
Chelsea took an early lead and appeared to be coasting, only to concede twice as Qarabag exploited gaps at the back. The hosts capitalised on counterattacks and set-piece opportunities, turning the tie on its head and sending the crowd into a frenzy. The away side, however, found a spark late in the match as Garnacho worked space inside the box, curling a precise finish into the far corner to restore parity.
Garnacho’s late intervention and its impact
The equaliser from Garnacho was more than a goal; it was a lifeline for Chelsea in a game where momentum had clearly swung in Qarabag’s favour. The Spaniard’s calm finish demonstrated his growing confidence on the European stage and provided a crucial point that could shape Chelsea’s approach in the remaining group fixtures.
Manager Enzo Maresca’s verdict on the defending
After the match, Maresca was frank about his team’s defensive display, labeling some of Chelsea’s defending as “silly.” He stressed that discipline at the back must improve if they are to progress in Europe this season. The Italian coach reiterated that while Garnacho’s late goal was a standout moment, the overall performance needs tightening, especially against strong counter-attacking teams.
What this means for Chelsea’s campaign
The result keeps Chelsea in the hunt in their Champions League group, but it also emphasizes the gap that can emerge between attacking intent and defensive solidity. With several key fixtures still to come, Maresca will be looking to tighten the spine of his side and ensure that late setbacks like the Qarabag equaliser do not become the norm.
Looking ahead: tactical takeaways for Chelsea
To avoid conceding late goals in future fixtures, Chelsea may review their mid-to-low block transitions, as well as their backline communication under pressure. Midfielders will also have to contribute more in tracking runners and closing down spaces on the edge of the box. Garnacho’s moment should act as a catalyst for momentum, but not as a substitute for consistent defensive performance across 90 minutes.
Fan and pundit reactions
Fans reacted with a mix of admiration for Garnacho’s composure and concern about Chelsea’s vulnerability at times. Pundits highlighted the need for greater concentration and quicker transitions to reassert control in European nights, where small margins decide outcomes.
The road ahead
Chelsea will need to channel this late equaliser into a sustained run of results as the group takes shape. If they can implement tighter defensive routines and maintain the ambition to press high, Maresca’s side could still mount a credible challenge in Europe this season.
