By Gariba Raubil,Samuel Obour
Copyright yen
Chelsea suffer 3-1 Champions League defeat in their first European outing in nearly two-and-a-half yearsCole Palmer shines despite Blues’ costly mistakes, scoring an early goal but unable to change the final resultFans react with frustration and divided opinions, criticizing tactical errors while praising individual brilliance
Chelsea suffered a harsh introduction back to the Champions League, falling 3-1 to Bayern Munich in their first European outing in almost two-and-a-half years.
Although the Blues started brightly and Cole Palmer scored an early goal, they struggled to maintain focus, with costly lapses in concentration.
According to Flashscore, Trevoh Chalobah scored an unfortunate own goal, while a devastating double from Harry Kane ultimately sealed a comprehensive victory for the German giants at the Allianz Arena on Wednesday, September 17.
Meanwhile, Palmer, who had been in scintillating form following his strike in Chelsea’s 2-2 draw with Brentford, opened the scoring after a slick one-two with Malo Gusto, calmly finishing past Manuel Neuer.
However, his performance could not mask Chelsea’s struggles to control key moments, particularly in the second half, where mistakes at the highest level proved costly.
Cole Palmer criticises Chelsea teammates post-match
In addition, Palmer openly addressed Chelsea’s shortcomings in a candid post-match interview with TNT Sports, highlighting the team’s concentration lapses and inability to manage decisive moments.
He pointed out that Chelsea began the match strongly and created several early opportunities, yet errors at the highest level made it difficult for him and his teammates to maintain momentum.
According to the ex-Manchester City playmaker, Chelsea’s failure to manage key moments effectively contributed significantly to the defeat.
Despite these issues, the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup best player noted that the Blues showed they could compete against one of the top teams in Europe, demonstrating determination and a willingness to learn from the experience of returning to the Champions League.
On an individual level, Cole Palmer was a standout performer. He thought he had secured a second goal following a brilliant pass from Andrey Santos, but VAR intervened to rule it out for offside.
His attacking flair and composure on the ball provided a rare bright spot in an otherwise inconsistent Chelsea display, underscoring the potential within a squad still finding its rhythm at the European level.
Overall, Chelsea’s performance showcased glimpses of fluid passing and attacking intent but ultimately lacked the consistency and focus needed to challenge one of Europe’s elite sides.
Palmer’s remarks highlight a desire for accountability and improvement as the Blues aim to make their mark in this season’s Champions League.
Chelsea fans react to Bayern Munich defeat
Chelsea supporters were quick to voice their frustration and disappointment following the 3-1 loss to Bayern Munich, expressing a mix of heartbreak, anger, and hope on social media.
While some lamented the team’s costly mistakes and lack of focus, others praised individual performances, particularly Cole Palmer’s bright moments, highlighting the passionate and often divided reactions from the Blues faithful after their return to the Champions League.
@EngrFab said:
”Overall thought on this game. Shocking tactics from Maresca ,and his naivety to make changes after two going two goal down and seeing how badly his team is playing.”
@MatewIK wrote:
”Maresca needs to start trusting Santos and the rest of his squad ,Enzo has been awful since the start of the season ,I see no reason why he should still remain on the pitch till 60 min. This defeat is on Maresca.”
@Hansanal commented:
”Malo Gusto with an unintentional pass to Kane to put Bayern Munich 3-1 over them.”
@CFjck reacted:
”Ever since CWC Sanchez has really improved.”
Cole Palmer shines in Conference League final
YEN.com.gh earlier reported on Chelsea’s impressive Conference League victory over Real Betis, spotlighting Cole Palmer’s individual brilliance as a key factor in the win.
The young forward’s skill and composure on the ball helped secure a crucial result for the Blues, further cementing his reputation as one of the team’s pivotal stars.
Source: YEN.com.gh
