Juventus Sink Chelsea in Hong Kong as Zhegrova Screamer Seals Victory
Edon Zhegrova's brilliant second-half strike handed Juventus a 1-0 victory over Chelsea in Hong Kong as Xabi Alonso's side suffered back-to-back pre-season defeats.
Zhegrova's stunning strike proves decisive
Chelsea were beaten 1-0 by Juventus in Hong Kong after substitute Edon Zhegrova produced the game's defining moment with a superb curling finish in the 68th minute. The Kosovo international latched onto a lay-off from Kenan Yildiz before sending a first-time effort into the top-left corner, leaving Robert Sánchez with no chance and giving Juventus victory in the pre-season friendly.
Chelsea struggle to create clear chances
Xabi Alonso's side found it difficult to break down a well-organised Juventus defence and offered little attacking threat throughout the contest. Chelsea's best opportunity fell to Marco Palestra, whose effort was kept out by Juventus goalkeeper Michele Di Gregorio after a driving run into the penalty area. Despite enjoying spells of possession, the Blues were unable to find the breakthrough they needed.
New faces continue to get valuable minutes
The match saw summer signings Danny Welbeck and Geovany Quenda make their debuts for Chelsea, while Mykhailo Mudryk made his first appearance since November 2024 after returning to action. Alonso continued to rotate his squad as he assesses his options ahead of the new Premier League season, using the fixture as another opportunity to build fitness and tactical understanding.
Pre-season preparations continue
The defeat leaves Chelsea with consecutive losses during their pre-season tour, but Alonso has consistently stressed that performances, fitness and tactical development remain the priority before competitive football begins. Juventus, meanwhile, continued an encouraging pre-season campaign with another disciplined defensive display and a moment of individual brilliance proving enough to secure victory.
What's next
Chelsea continue their pre-season preparations ahead of the 2026/27 Premier League season. Juventus remain unbeaten in pre-season and will look to build on another positive performance. Xabi Alonso is expected to continue rotating his squad as players build match fitness before the campaign begins.
Sky Sports, Chelsea FC, August 2026