It would have been a familiar feeling for Ed Brand's under-19 Chelsea side in the UEFA Youth League, as the Blues started the match expressing their ability to remain composed on the ball as they looked to build each attack. It was an even start with Milan looking equally composed in the opening exchanges, with neither side able to fashion a cut-throat opportunity.
It was therefore a hammer-blow when Jan-Carlo Simic opened the scoring when he reacted best when Ted Curd could only push the ball into the box after a good save from a sneaky free-kick from Milan's right targeted at the bottom corner. The Italian side then made their age show - Chelsea had five players who would still be eligible for the competition in 2025-26 - and controlled play, buoyed by their goal.
Chances for Jude Soonsup-Bell and Harrison McMahon showed Chelsea were still in the match, with Kiano Dyer growing into the fight in the centre of midfield, but ultimately the Blues went into half-time behind.
READ MORE: Chelsea vs AC Milan highlights: Blues left frustrated after entertaining UEFA Youth League clash
An entertaining second period followed and as the half opened up, Zak Sturge was able to attack and provide a ball for Leo Castledine to level up the scores.
Chelsea's youngsters had to stand strong against some relentless Milan attacks as the game entered it's latter stages and were able to counter with their own in a back and forth finale. However, neither side could manage the finishing touch in a tight game where the Blues stood up when the game could have strayed away from them and earned a solid point against the group leaders.
football.london looks at three players who impressed below:
Tudor Mendel-Idowu - The 17-year-old winger was a constant threat on Chelsea's right and always looked to test the opposition full-back while having the work-rate to help Joshua Acheampong in defence. Milan often had to double-up on him as the youngster showed a trick or two and looked to deliver the ball into the box with his left foot. His late first half cross saw Harrison McMahon hit the post.
Maintained his threat during the second period to cause Davide Bartesagh problems despite an inclination to cut back onto his left foot.
Jimi Tauriainen - The 18-year-old had an important role to play at the base of midfield and captained the side, with youngsters Kiano Dyer and McMahon accompanying him in a midfield three.
The Finnish star came to the club as a forward but has been trusted in the centre of the pitch by Brand and employed his physicality and dominance in the second period, while also looking to release Leo Castledine and Mendel-Idowu quickly. Tauriainen was able to ride challenges exceptionally well when carrying the ball.
Zak Sturge - A really mature display for Chelsea's summer addition. The left-back was penned into his own half during the opening period and really tested by Chaka Traore. While he didn't always win the battle he stood up to the test well and then took his opportunities in the second period.
The former Brighton man came out with renewed vigour to test Milan and as the game opened up, timed his runs well to cause the visitors problems. His composed ball in assisted Leo Castledine's equaliser and the 18-year-old was relentlessly up and down the pitch after Traore was subbed. A disciplined and responsible performance.
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