This was not a night for Enzo Maresca’s trademark control. Chelsea invited pressure by starting with a weakened team against dangerous opposition and were anything but measured as they battled in vain to douse Qarabag’s spirit and skill at a raucous Tofiq Bahramov Republican Stadium.

Those lucky enough to be there were treated to a wonderfully absorbing contest. It finished 2-2, Alejandro Garnacho coming off the bench to spare Chelsea’s blushes with a fine equaliser, but it could have been anything. Both sides had chances, both defences were ropey and it had seemed that something special was brewing when Qarabag responded to an early goal from the outstanding Estêvão Willian by going 2-1 up before half-time.

In the event Chelsea’s depth ensured that they left with a point to show from their 5,000 mile round-trip to Azerbaijan’s capital city. However, they left for London knowing that they had been in a battle. Jorrel Hato endured a nightmare in central defence, Maresca had to bring on the big names earlier than anticipated and the worry for Chelsea is how much damage this draw will do their hopes of finishing in the top eight of the league phase. They have seven...