Chelsea vs. Real Madrid: First Half Analysis and Player Ratings

At the half-time break at the Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, Chelsea trailed 2-1 to Real Madrid. Dani Ceballos opened the scoring for Los Blancos by tapping in a loose ball from close range. 

Brahim Diaz doubled the Spaniards' advantage with a brilliant goal. However, Noni Madueke managed to halve the deficit for Chelsea with a well-placed header.

Below, Bobby Vincent shares his player ratings from a Chelsea perspective for the opening 45 minutes:

• Malo Gusto

Rating: 5.5

Comments: Failed to track the run off Badiashile's back for Ceballos' goal early on.

• Romeo Lavia

Rating: 7

Comments: Displayed exquisite passing once again.

• Enzo Fernandez

Rating: 7.5 

Comments: Was quiet for most of the half but delivered a wonderful cross to Madueke for Chelsea's goal.

• Christopher Nkunku

Rating: 5.5 

Comments: Gave the ball away a few times but looked like a threat in attacking areas.

• Noni Madueke 

Rating: 8.5

Comments: A continuous threat for Fran Garcia, the Real Madrid left-back, who looked uncomfortable against him. Made a valuable contribution with his headed goal.

• Raheem Sterling 

Rating: 6

Comments: Needs to get more ball possession on the left-hand side.

• Marc Guiu

Rating: 5.5 

Comments: Quiet performance, facing two very good centre-backs in Antonio Rudiger and Eder Militao.