Chelsea, Barcelona sore but ready
Reigning English Premier League champions Chelsea and reigning European kings Barcelona exited Tuesday's friendly showdown injured but intensely motivated as they return to Europe to defend their crowns.
Chelsea captured the International Champions Cup victory 4-2 on penalty kicks after the teams were deadlocked 2-2 after regular time thanks to Chelsea defender Gary Cahill's header in the 85th minute.
In the shootout, Alan Halilovic put Barca down with a shot off the crossbar to open the second round. In the third, Chelsea goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois denied Gerard Pique and Chelsea's Ramires and Loic Remy scored after that to settle the outcome.
"The penalties mean nothing for us and I think they mean nothing for Barcelona," said Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho. "This was not about win or lose. They were playing and training the same as us. It was not a tactical game. It was two teams looking for intensity."
No one wanted to see injuries but Mourinho has hamstring fears for striker Diego Costa and a possible broken nose for Cahill, who regardless will not miss Sunday's Community Shield match against Arsenal at Wembley Stadium.
Barcelona fullback Douglas was hurt early and midfielder Sergi Roberto played 75 minutes in a backline role.
"We've shown an acceptable level on the field," Enrique said. "I liked the way we played. We have five players on vacation, but the other players are ready for the season and extremely motivated."
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