It says a lot about Chelsea's 2022/23 that a 2-0 defeat that saw the club head out of the Champions League and in many ways ended the west London side's season, could be a match that felt like it had positives. It was by no means an outstanding performance
What was clear for the Blues is that there was semblence of some identity. There was energy and intensity in Chelsea's press and they generated opportunities in the opening half against Real Madrid at Stamford Bridge, there was something for the ground to get behind.
If nothing else, it was a markedly different outing to what Chelsea had against Brighton just days earlier. A point that perhaps provides disappointment and relief all at once.
