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.
