Estadio Santiago Bernabéu, Madrid – Chelsea staged a determined comeback to earn a 2-2 draw against Real Madrid in a gripping UEFA Champions League clash that featured drama, goals, and a hint of nostalgia as Steffen Nielsen faced his former club.
Real Madrid raced to a two-goal lead in the first half, with Carl Pritchard stealing the spotlight. The veteran forward struck twice in quick succession – first in the 26th minute with a placed effort and again on 33 minutes, this time with a volley that clipped the inside of the post before nestling into the net. Pritchard, once a Chelsea icon, celebrated mutedly against his former side.
The second half saw Chelsea regroup and respond in style. Fernando González clawed one back in the 54th minute, capitalising on space to volley home past Nielsen. Then, after Jairzinho was brought down inside the box, Netanel Sahar stepped up to convert the penalty in the 61st minute, levelling the match. VAR briefly delayed celebrations, but the decision stood.
Both sides pushed for a winner, but defences held firm. Chelsea had 13 shots to Madrid’s 8 and slightly edged the xG battle (1.96 to 1.36). Jairzinho was named Chelsea’s best performer with a 7.7 rating and an assist, while goalkeeper Joby Holwell had a less convincing outing, finishing with a 6.3 rating.
The result leaves Chelsea in a strong position heading into the final matchdays of the group stage, while Madrid will rue letting a two-goal lead slip on home soil.