Drogba Arena, 23 October 2054 – Chelsea began their Champions League campaign with a hard-fought 2–1 victory over Bayern Munich, in a match that saw attacking precision, VAR intervention, and a tense finish under the London floodlights.
Jairzinho opened the scoring midway through the first half, showing superb composure inside the penalty area to slot past Moshe Lazarovich after a slick passing sequence from the Chelsea midfield. The Brazilian winger was a constant menace down the right flank, exploiting Bayern’s defensive gaps with pace and purpose.
The second half saw Chelsea double their lead from the penalty spot. After a VAR review confirmed contact in the area, Scott Crichton converted coolly from 12 yards, sending Lazarovich the wrong way in the 63rd minute. Drogba Arena erupted as Chelsea tightened their grip on the game, with Dimario’s side dictating possession and tempo.
Bayern, however, refused to go quietly. A late error from Alan Kardec gifted the visitors a lifeline, with Timo Froschauer firing home a low drive deep into stoppage time. It was too little, too late – Chelsea held firm to secure all three points in their opening group fixture.
Player of the Match honours went to Bayern’s Moshe Lazarovich, who produced an outstanding performance despite the defeat, making 14 saves to keep the scoreline respectable.
Champions League Standings
After Matchday One, Manchester City and Liverpool lead the way following convincing wins, while CFR Cluj and Juventus also impressed. Chelsea’s victory sees them sitting 10th in the coefficient table, ahead of Rennes and Napoli, and well-positioned for qualification.
Final Score: Chelsea 2–1 Bayern Munich
Goals: Jairzinho (26’), Crichton (63’ pen) – Froschauer (90+4’)
Attendance: 81,294
Player of the Match: Moshe Lazarovich (FC Bayern, 8.2 rating, 14 saves)
Chelsea’s Champions League campaign kicks off in perfect fashion, with Calin Dimario’s men showing grit and quality against one of Europe’s giants.