Moses shines as Conte’s Chelsea debut ends in defeat

Antonio Conte took charge of his first Chelsea game on Saturday afternoon with the Blues travelling to Austria to take on Rapid Vienna.

It was a debut to forget for the Italian, whose team slipped to a 2-0 defeat to their hosts.

The game, which inaugurated the brand new Allianz Stadion, was a typical friendly affair, lacking in excitement.

But Nigeria forward, Victor Moses, shone through as always during pre-season games for the West Londoners.

Moses was given the start in a Chelsea side that featured Papy Djilobodji, Ruben Loftus- Cheek and Baba Rahman.

John Terry took the captaincy from the first whistle and second longest serving player in the team, John Obi Mikel, started also.

The hosts began quickly and took the lead within 10 minutes.

They dominated the first period, causing Conte to go into hyperdrive on the touchline.

However, his gesticulations could not improve the match status.

The second period saw the introduction of the likes of Ola Aina and Nathaniel Chalobah, but the Blues still failed to click.

Rapid killed the game off in the 82nd minute after some more neat play.

The Austrians look strong as they head into their season opener next weekend.

Despite the defeat, Moses held his own in the encounter.

The Nigerian has had a tough time at Stamford Bridge since his arrival, being unable to impress the numerous managers he has played under.

Against Vienna, he posed the biggest threat for the Blues, driving from the left side of midfield – with Willian operating from the other.

He was a constant menace with his beautiful runs, skills and dribbles – such that earned him a handshake from Conte while being substituted in the 80th minute.

Mikel on the other hand, had a quiet game and was replaced less than 15 minutes into the second half.