A surprise visitor caused a stir at Stamford Bridge on Tuesday evening, just hours before Chelsea's crucial Champions League encounter with Barcelona. Rather than a star striker, it was a wild fox that was spotted trotting through the empty stands, providing an unexpected pre-match spectacle.
The Furry Pitch Invader
Cameras from broadcasters Prime Video captured the agile fox as it scurried through the seating areas and even leapt up onto the rows of chairs. The animal made its first appearance approximately 90 minutes before kick-off, prompting stadium security to keep a watchful eye on the situation.
Authorities were determined to ensure the furry intruder did not disrupt any of the pre-match preparations for the highly-anticipated European fixture. Fortunately, the fox made a quiet exit before the 40,000 supporters began to fill the stadium, ensuring the match itself went ahead without any further interruptions.
A Different Kind of 'Fox in the Box'
The incident provided a moment of light relief on a night when Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca had opted not to field a traditional goal-poaching striker. With a recognised 'fox in the box' absent from his team sheet, winger Pedro Neto was instead handed the responsibility of leading the line against the Spanish giants.
The timing of the animal's visit was particularly ironic, given the historic rivalry between the two clubs is often defined by chaos and drama. Their past encounters have included several memorable and tense battles on the European stage.
A History of Dramatic Encounters
The history between Chelsea and Barcelona is long and fiercely competitive. The Catalans triumphed 3-0 at the Nou Camp in the 2017-18 season, eliminating the Blues from the tournament at the last-16 stage. That victory was powered by a brace from Lionel Messi and a goal from Ousmane Dembele.
The last meeting at Stamford Bridge in 2018 ended in a 1-1 draw. Willian's second-half goal for Chelsea was ultimately cancelled out by a fine finish from the ever-present Messi.
However, Chelsea fans hold fond memories of their 2012 semi-final triumph. After a 1-0 first-leg win at the Bridge, secured by a Didier Drogba winner, the Blues faced a monumental task in the return leg. A chaotic night at the Nou Camp saw them go two goals behind and receive a red card for John Terry. Against all odds, they rallied to draw 2-2 on the night, sealing their place in a Champions League final they would go on to win.
