Chelsea stunned as Malaysian Johor Darul Ta’zim abandon friendly

Chelsea were left bewildered on Saturday when Malaysian side Johor Darul Ta’zim walked off at the Sultan Ibrahim Stadium, aborting a planned penalty shootout after a 3‑3 draw in a pre‑season friendly. The abandonment left supporters confused and disappointed, casting a shadow over the Blues' preparation for the upcoming season.

The match marked the Blues' second friendly of the weekend, with Xabi Alonso fielding a second‑string side. Liam Delap scored twice for Chelsea, giving the English club an early advantage.

An own‑goal in the 89th minute forced Alonso's side to settle for a draw, completing the 3‑3 scoreline. The late equaliser meant the game ended level despite Delap's double.

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After the full‑time whistle, fans expected a penalty shootout, a common feature of pre‑season fixtures, but the Malaysian side from Malaysia, Johor Darul Ta’zim, left the pitch, prompting confusion. Kevin Campello, Chelsea's head of first‑team operations, said the decision was "written in the contract".

No official explanation was given for the abandoned penalty session, and supporters inside the stadium expressed disappointment at the abrupt ending. The incident cast a shadow over the Blues' preparation for the upcoming season.

Chelsea will travel to face Real Sociedad next Saturday in their final pre‑season match, and the Blues open the new season against Fulham the following week. The story was reported by Lewis Browning, sports reporter, at 17:30 BST on 9 August 2026.