Roy Präger Stadium, Wolfsburg – 21 October 2054 – Chelsea’s perfect start to their UEFA Champions League campaign came to a halt on a rain-soaked night in Germany, as they were held to a goalless draw by VfL Wolfsburg. Despite dominating large portions of the game and creating several clear-cut chances, Calin Dimario’s side could not find a way past an inspired Marcus Kuring in the Wolfsburg goal.
The Blues produced a performance full of control and intent, recording 24 shots and an expected goals tally of 3.17, compared to Wolfsburg’s modest 0.35. Yet the scoreboard refused to budge, largely due to the brilliance of Kuring, who made nine saves and was deservedly named Player of the Match with an 8.7 rating.
Perhaps the biggest moment of frustration came in the 55th minute, when Kieran O’Sullivan stepped up to take a penalty after Netanel Sahar was brought down in the box. Kuring guessed correctly, diving low to his right to keep out O’Sullivan’s effort and preserve the stalemate.
Wolfsburg, compact and disciplined, relied on their pace in transition but rarely troubled Elias Jimenez in the Chelsea goal. The match was stop-start, littered with fouls and tactical interruptions that broke the rhythm of play, preventing Dimario’s side from ever fully asserting their usual tempo.
“We created enough to win two matches,” said Dimario post-match. “Sometimes you meet a goalkeeper who has one of those nights. The important thing is we controlled the game and kept another clean sheet.”
Elsewhere in the Champions League, Juventus, Rennes, and Napoli all made it three wins from three to top the League Phase standings, while Manchester United continued their good form with a 2–0 victory over OGC Nice.
Champions League League Phase – Top 8
1. Juventus – 9 pts
2. Rennes – 9 pts
3. Napoli – 9 pts
4. Man UFC – 8 pts
5. Atlético Madrid – 7 pts
6. Chelsea – 7 pts
7. Man City – 7 pts
8. Wolfsburg – 7 pts
The draw sees Chelsea remain unbeaten in Europe, extending their incredible run to 66 matches without defeat across all competitions. However, the result leaves the reigning champions in sixth place in the League Phase standings, with work to do ahead of their next fixture.
Final Score: VfL Wolfsburg 0–0 Chelsea
Attendance: 39,471
Player of the Match: Marcus Kuring (VfL Wolfsburg, 8.7 rating, 9 saves)