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Garnacho Saves Chelsea from Champions League Shock as Estevão Dazzles in Baku

Super-sub Alejandro Garnacho rescued Chelsea from a potential Champions League disaster in Baku, as the Blues escaped with a 2-2 draw against Qarabag on Wednesday night. The young Argentine came off the bench to salvage a point after Enzo Maresca’s side endured a first-half collapse marred by Jorrel Hato’s costly errors.

Chelsea started brightly and looked set for a comfortable night when Brazilian prodigy Estevão opened the scoring in the 16th minute. The 17-year-old, already considered one of South America’s brightest talents, showed exquisite control before slotting home with precision — a goal that underlined his growing confidence in European competition.

But Qarabag, roared on by a passionate home crowd, refused to roll over. Colombian winger Camilo Duran struck the post after a brilliant solo run, and Leandro Andrade pounced on the rebound to level the score in the 29th minute.

The Azerbaijani champions then completed the turnaround before half-time when Hato, under pressure, handled the ball in the box. Marko Jankovic converted the resulting penalty, sending goalkeeper Robert Sánchez the wrong way to make it 2-1.

After the break, Maresca turned to Garnacho — and the 20-year-old made an immediate impact. Cutting inside from the left, his powerful left-footed strike beat the keeper at the near post to restore parity. Despite late pressure, Chelsea couldn’t find the winner and were forced to settle for a draw that leaves them vulnerable in their group.

For Maresca, there will be relief at avoiding defeat — but also concern at the defensive frailty that continues to haunt his team. Estevão’s brilliance and Garnacho’s composure offered hope, yet the Blues will know they must tighten up to avoid a tense play-off route to the last 16.

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