Chelsea showcased a revitalized identity in Jakarta, marking a significant turnaround after a series of pre-season setbacks. Following consecutive defeats and a lackluster performance against Juventus, manager Xabi Alonso made a decisive shift to a 3-4-3 formation, which proved to be highly effective in their 3-0 victory over AC Milan. The match featured two goals from Joao Pedro, both stemming from set pieces, providing a promising glimpse into the potential of this Chelsea squad.

Alonso's Tactical Commitment

The previous experimentation with a 4-2-3-1 formation was abandoned in favor of Alonso's preferred system, characterized by a back three and high-pressing wing-backs. This tactical approach emphasized responsibility in midfield rather than comfort. Key players Moises Caicedo and Romeo Lavia were instrumental in executing this game plan. Caicedo frequently dropped into the defense to initiate attacks, effectively transforming the back three into a four when Chelsea had possession. Lavia's tight marking of Milan's Luka Modric disrupted the Serie A side's flow, leaving them unable to establish their rhythm.

Marco Palestra, operating on the left flank, added a dynamic edge to Chelsea's formation. The 21-year-old Italian's ability to maneuver both inside and outside kept Milan's defense guessing. His contributions included creating scoring opportunities and posing a constant threat, exemplifying the modern wing-back role that fits seamlessly into Alonso's vision.

Effective Set Pieces

Set pieces have long been a weak point for Chelsea, with only 10 goals scored from corners throughout the entire 2025/26 Premier League season. However, in Jakarta, they managed to score twice from corners in just 90 minutes. Set-piece coach Austin McPhee, despite being new to the role, had a noticeable impact on the team's execution. The first goal came just before halftime when Caicedo delivered a corner that Joao Pedro cleverly headed in, exploiting Milan's defensive lapses. The second goal followed shortly after the break, with Caicedo volleying home from the edge of the box after another well-rehearsed corner routine.

Joao Pedro's Impact

Joao Pedro's performance was particularly noteworthy. Earlier in the match, he missed a clear opportunity to score, shooting over the bar when it seemed easier to find the net. However, he quickly made amends by scoring from Caicedo's corner just before halftime. Following the interval, he capitalized on Milan's disorganization after multiple substitutions, scoring again with a well-placed shot from a low cross delivered by Pedro Neto.

This match not only highlighted Chelsea's tactical evolution under Alonso but also signaled a renewed focus on set pieces and attacking prowess, with Joao Pedro emerging as a key figure in this transformation.