Chelsea beat Real Sociedad in final pre-season warm-up | OneFootball

Chelsea ended their pre-season preparations with an encouraging 3-1 victory over Real Sociedad at Stamford Bridge, giving new manager Xabi Alonso a positive result in his first match at the stadium.

The hosts made a fast start and took the lead after 11 minutes. João Pedro’s header was saved by Álex Remiro, but Morgan Rogers reacted quickest to the rebound and fired Chelsea ahead.

Real Sociedad responded before the interval, with Jon Mikel Aramburu producing an excellent first-time strike from outside the area after Chelsea failed to clear their lines.

The hosts regained control soon after the restart. Just two minutes into the second half, João Pedro met a cross from Reece James and headed beyond Remiro to restore the home side’s advantage.

The Brazilian completed his brace in the 77th minute, receiving the ball from Malo Gusto before cutting inside and sending a low shot across goal to make it 3-1.

There was also attention on Enzo Fernández, who was met by boos from sections of the Stamford Bridge crowd after remaining at Chelsea beyond the transfer deadline.

The Blues now turn their attention to competitive action, beginning their Premier League campaign with a trip to Fulham on 24 August.