In a thrilling pre-season match, Chelsea emerged victorious with a 6-4 win over Western Sydney Wanderers, courtesy of a stunning nine-minute hat-trick by Joao Pedro. The game marked Xabi Alonso's first match as Chelsea's head coach, and despite a shaky start, the team showcased their potential with a mix of youthful energy and experienced flair. Alonso's side took the lead early on through 17-year-old Dastan Satpaev, but the A-League team fought back to take the lead on three separate occasions.
However, the introduction of substitutes Cole Palmer, Joao Pedro, Estevao, and Levi Colwill in the second half turned the tide in Chelsea's favor. Joao Pedro's expert finishing and clinical precision sealed the win, with his three goals coming in the final minutes of the game. The victory marked a promising start to Alonso's tenure, with the team displaying glimpses of the style he hopes to implement at Stamford Bridge. Despite the win, Alonso acknowledged that there is still much to learn, particularly in terms of game management, and expressed his satisfaction with the useful friendly match that will help the team prepare for the upcoming season.