Delap shines despite Maresca ringing the changes
- Published
Liam Delap proved he can be a threatening option up front, with alternative striking option Nicolas Jackson still suspended for the last-16 match against Benfica following his sending off against Flamengo.
The £30m summer signing opened his Chelsea account with a stylish goal - a deft first touch, spin and placed shot into the bottom corner just before referee Yaez Falcon Perez blew his whistle for half-time.
The England Under-21 international had earlier twisted into space after Noni Madueke's pass inside and saw a shot saved by goalkeeper Bechir Ben Said.
Chelsea dominated possession on a hot evening, having 74% of the ball. They also managed 16 shots to just three - and none on target - from ES Tunis.
Midfielder Enzo Fernandez captained the team in the absence of an ill Reece James and set up both goals before being taken off for debutant Andrey Santos in the second half. Mamadou Sarr also made his first appearance for the club.
Several Chelsea players struggled to impress - like Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, Malo Gusto and Christopher Nkunku - but it was understandable in such difficult conditions in Philadelphia and after eight changes.
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