Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has shared his thoughts following his team’s frustrating draw against Qarabag, emphasizing that despite the disappointing result, the Blues began the match in promising fashion.
Reflecting on the performance, Maresca noted that Chelsea showed intensity and control early in the game, creating several good opportunities that could have changed the outcome had they been taken. “We started in the right way,” he said. “The team was aggressive, we pressed well, and we dominated possession in the opening stages. But football is about taking chances, and we failed to capitalize on our early momentum.”
Maresca admitted that as the match progressed, Chelsea’s focus and rhythm declined. Qarabag grew in confidence, defending deep and frustrating Chelsea’s attacking players. The manager pointed out that his side’s lack of composure in front of goal and failure to sustain pressure ultimately cost them the victory.
He also praised the opposition for their resilience and organization, acknowledging that Qarabag made it difficult for Chelsea to find space in the final third. “They defended well, stayed compact, and waited for their moments. We needed more patience and precision to break them down,” Maresca explained.
Despite the setback, Maresca remains optimistic about the team’s progress. He highlighted the positives from the performance — particularly Chelsea’s strong start — and stressed the importance of maintaining that level of intensity throughout the full 90 minutes.
“The first part of the game showed what we’re capable of,” he said. “Now it’s about consistency and making sure we turn control into goals. The players understand that, and we’ll keep working on it.”
Chelsea’s inability to turn a dominant start into three points will serve as a lesson for Maresca’s side as they continue to adapt under his system. The focus now shifts to ensuring that strong beginnings lead to decisive finishes in the games ahead.
