Chelsea’s Academy teams celebrated wins in October as our Under-15s and Under-16s both won the Premier League International Tournament at their respective age groups.
The International Tournament sees a selected group of overseas clubs invited to take on the best from England, who progressed through regional qualifiers earlier in the season, and is considered to be the showpiece tournament for each age group every season.
Chelsea Under-15s defeated Dynamo Kiev, Newcastle United and Manchester United in the group stage at the beginning of the month in Derby, scoring a combined 14 goals and conceding just two. The semi-final saw us drawn against Sunderland, where two goals and a clean sheet meant our youngsters were through to the final to take on the young Toffees.
Another impressive performance followed in the showpiece occasion, with Everton defeated with a convincing 4-0 scoreline. Ashley Cole was among the coaching staff following confirmation of his role with the Under-15s a fortnight ago.
The Under-16s saw their success unfold at Loughborough University where they overcame Stoke City, Reading and Brazilian side Palmeiras in the group stage, scoring a combined nine goals and conceding just three.
It was another international side in the semi-final but a solid 2-0 victory over Internacional saw Chelsea progress through to the final to take on City. An impressive performance ensured a 1-0 triumph in the most prestigious competition at that age group.
Congratulations to all players and staff!