Chelsea's Premier League opener resulted in a goalless draw against Crystal Palace. Enzo Maresca expressed satisfaction with his team's performance despite their lack of preparation. They faced a goal that was ruled out due to an infringement, while creating numerous chances themselves. Chelsea recorded a higher expected goals (xG) total of 1.8 compared to Palace's 1.1 from their shots. This draw marked Chelsea's first scoreless season opener since 2011-12, despite their recent investments in attacking talent. The team faced limitations due to minimal pre-season friendlies after competing in the Club World Cup.
"I think we created enough chances to win the game. We just conceded the free-kick in the first half, which they scored from," Maresca told Sky Sports.
Chelsea ended the game with an expected goals (xG) total of 1.8 from their 19 shots to Palace's 1.1 from their 12 efforts, though Maresca was pleased with the display.
The result saw Chelsea start a Premier League season with a 0-0 draw for the first time since 2011-12, despite heavily investing in a new-look forward line.
Maresca referenced his side's lack of preparation for the new season, having played just two friendlies before facing the Eagles after going the distance in the Club World Cup.
Collection
[
|
...
]