Chelsea secured a 3-2 win over Napoli in the Champions League league-phase finale at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on Wednesday night as the Blues progressed to the last 16 to knock the Azzurri out.
The host almost had the lead in the ninth minute after Moises Caicedo’s loose back pass to Robert Sanchez was intercepted by Scott McTominay, but Sanchez’s clearance struck the face of the Scot before flying over the bar.
10 minutes later, Chelsea were awarded a penalty after Reece James’ free kick struck the arm of Juan Jesus in the area.
Enzo Fernandez stepped up for the spot-kick and converted beyond Alex Meret.
Moments later, Pedro Neto was released on the break, but his effort was kept out by Meret, and João Pedro’s overhead kick on the rebound flew wide.
In the 33rd minute, Antonio Vergara restored parity after he wriggled his way into the Blues’ box and slotted his finish into the far corner.
Just before the break, Rasmus Hojlund fired the host ahead after Mathias Olivera drilled in a low cross to his path and the former Man United striker finished into the top corner.
At the break, Liam Rosenior made a change as Cole Palmer returned to action following a thigh issue, replacing Neto as the visitors searched for an equaliser.
At the hour mark, João Pedro drew Chelsea level after he was found by Palmer at the edge of the area, and the Brazilian drilled in a powerful shot beyond Meret.
Minutes later, Fernandez tried his luck from the edge of the box but his effort floated well over the bar.
In the 82nd minute, João Pedro restored the visitors’ lead after Palmer was the provider again, with the Brazilian finishing well into the bottom left corner.
Former Blue Romelu Lukaku could’ve restored parity at the death, but his effort from close range was parried away by Sanchez to preserve Chelsea’s lead.
Chelsea finished sixth in the league-phase standings, while Napoli finished 30th, and they bow out of the competition.