Chelsea and Barcelona finish 2-2, Blues win on penalties

Chelsea finished up their preseason tour of the United States on Tuesday, defeating FC Barcelona in penalties. It was a bit of a sloppy affair, but it was definitely entertaining.

Chelsea didn't play conservatively, and probably could have had a pair of early goals before Eden Hazard finally put them ahead about 15 minutes into the match. That sensational goal was the only tally of the first half, before the Blues made a few changes for the second 45 minutes.

Unfortunately, Barcelona managed a pair of second half goals, against a Chelsea defense which looked shaky all evening. Thankfully, one of those defenders leveled the match with just five minutes left to play, sending the second straight preseason contest to penalties.

As usual with meaningless matches, there's not too much that can be taken away from the match, as it didn't actually mean anything. That said, here are a few quick thoughts.

• I just have to start with Kenedy tonight, who looked fantastic in his first Chelsea appearance. He didn't stop sprinting during his 45 minutes of play, and was a constant thorn in the side of the Barcelona defense. The Brazilian is certainly going to be spending the season on loan, but Chelsea fans will definitely be paying attention now.
• I don't think Luis Suarez's goal actually crossed the line, and I'm pretty certain he was offside when the pass to him was played. He didn't bite anyone, however.
• Diego Costa went down with no contact just before being subbed off, and limped straight down the tunnel when he was replaced. That situation already warrants watching.
• Speaking of injuries, I'd guess we see Gary Cahill wearing a Cesc Zorres Happy mask very soon, as he almost certainly broke his nose tonight.
• Kurt Zouma's throws are awkward.
• I love penalties in the preseason, as it gives us a chance to see all of our options in a match setting.
• Arsenal is up next, so it's time to ask ourselves if Arsene Wenger will ever defeat a Jose Mourinho managed side.