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Chelsea were awarded a controversial penalty in the first half of their Champions League clash with Napoli. Juan Jesus was deemed to have handled the ball inside the box following an intricate free-kick routine involving Reece James and Enzo Fernandez.

Referee Clement Turpin immediately signalled for a penalty after the ball made contact with the Napoli defender's arm. Video Assistant Referee Jerome Brisard reviewed the incident and gave an immediate verdict, to uphold the on-field ruling. Fernandez converted from the spot past Alex Meret, opening the scoring at the Diego Armando Maradona Stadium. Following a tense opening 15 minutes, the Argentine midfielder put Chelsea ahead, netting his tenth goal of the campaign.

Antonio Vergara levelled matters for Antonio Conte's outfit shortly afterwards, turning away from Wesley Fofana before slotting into the bottom corner.

Speaking ahead of the match, Liam Rosenior heaped praise upon Conte. The Chelsea boss said: "Huge respect for him, firstly as a player, he was a magnificent footballer.

"He then went on to have an incredible and still has an incredible career as a coach. I think his passion as a player transmits to the passion in his teams and obviously when I was younger watching Chelsea play in the manner that they did, defensively so strong.

"[Eden] Hazard was incredible in those moments, and he's gone on to prove what an amazing manager he is and he's won many titles, including an incredible title here last year."

Following Napoli's 3-0 defeat to Juventus at the weekend, Rosenior reflected on the Italian side's recent form: "This is a very strong team. I think it would have been unfortunate in the recent games that they played.

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"The results haven't followed the performances that Antonio's team have given. We know it's going to be a very difficult game in a very special atmosphere. It doesn't change my plans at all because I've been planning for a very difficult game.

"In football, in the Champions League, in Serie A, in the Premier League, you can never expect anything. The competition level is so high. Napoli are a great team.

"They proved that last year with a fantastic title. When they have outstanding individual players, they have a world-class coach. They're still in the position where they can get through.

"We're aware of that. I think it will make for an exciting game because Napoli have to win. Also, for us to have a realistic chance of the top eight, we also need to win."