A View From the Bridge: Chelsea FC 2-0 Real Sociedad

With the start of Chelsea’s Premier League campaign less than a week away, the starting XI Jose Mourinho would put forward for last night’s friendly against Real Sociedad was as big a mystery as Real Madrid’s transfer negotiation tactics. However, just as Real Madrid have been throwing hundreds of millions at clubs, Chelsea threw a near full-strength team at Sociedad. 

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Prior to kick-off, the entire Chelsea squad was presented to the arriving crowd by Neil Barnett in a culmination of cheers, flag-waving and fire. The very biggest of cheers and ovations were reserved for Gary Cahill, captain John Terry and, naturally, the return of Didier Drogba, who’s joyous skipping will put many fans’ injury-related worries at rest. The only equivocal reception was that of Fernando Torres, who received conservative applause from most, and undeniable boos from some.

Any concerns that Diego Costa would not be able to score at Stamford Bridge were quenched after a mere 57 seconds in the torrid evening rain. Diego Costa was even kind enough to score six minutes later for any fans who hadn’t found their seats in time for his first. From that moment onwards, Chelsea decided to practice holding firm and dealing with opposition possession, and did so satisfactorily. 

Chelsea Rainbow

A special mention must be given to Nathan Aké, the only reserve player in the starting line-up, who despite a slightly shaky start, atoned for any wobbles of his and fast became one of the most exciting player on the field. This is obviously due to him having the most to prove, and his recurrent regaining of possession and good forward passes will surely have left Mourinho content.

Fernando Torres’s introduction unfortunately seemed to signal the end of any goalscoring, more so even than that of John Obi Mikel, despite the vocal support the former received after each scuffed opportunity or loss of possession. All in all, Chelsea won, showed great attacking flair when they tried, and most importantly stayed fit for the start of the domestic campaign. Let us hope that the double rainbow visible above the Shed End was a sign of good things to come this season.