Chelsea kick-started their Club World Cup campaign with a 2-0 win over Los Angeles FC but John Obi Mikel was nevertheless ‘frustrated’ by one member of Enzo Maresca’s squad.
Pedro Neto scored a superb goal to give the Premier League giants a first-half lead over MLS side Los Angeles.
Enzo Fernandez put the game to bed with Chelsea’s second on 81 minutes courtesy of an assist from summer signing Liam Delap, who impressed on his debut following a £30m move from Ipswich Town.
The match was played at 3pm local time in a half-empty Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia.
FIFA announced the official attendance at 22,137 – the stadium, the home of the Atlanta Falcons and Atlanta United FC – holds 71,000.
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Chelsea’s victory puts them in a strong position to progress from Group D as they look to reach the knockout stages and challenge for the Club World Cup title.
Maresca’s side face Brazilian giants Flamengo and Tunisian champions ES Tunis in their remaining group games.
It was a professional if not spectacular display from Chelsea, especially considering Bayern Munich and PSG’s respective 10-0 and 4-0 wins on Sunday.
Ex-Chelsea midfielder Mikel was on punditry duty for DAZN and even singled out one player who ‘frustrated’ him.
‘We need more from Madueke,’ the two-time Premier League winner said. ‘I’ve been frustrated with him in the first half.
‘He’s had a lot of the ball but hasn’t gone past his man, his final ball was not perfect either.
‘He needs to clean that up in his game, if he does that he can be a fantastic player. He gets the ball and doesn’t go past his man or create enough for the team.
‘I need to see him do more.’
Madueke started against Los Angeles FC but was subbed off just after the hour mark and replaced by Tyrique George.
Chelsea are believed to be open to offers for Madueke, who has blown hot and cold at Stamford Bridge since his £30m move from PSV in 2023.
More to follow…
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