Chelsea just managed to edge past Bournemouth in a highly end to end clash. Super sub, Christopher Nkunku, smashed home the winner and the only goal of the game in the later half of the game.
The Cherries’ dominated the proceedings during the first half, but were not able to convert any of their clear cut chances. Brazilian striker, Evanilson, even won a penalty for the Cherries’, which was brilliantly saved by the Blue’s keeper, Robert Sanchez. Ryan Christie came very close to giving the home side the lead, but his shot hit the woodwork.
Super subs Jadon Sancho and Christopher Nkunku brilliantly combined to score the winner late in the 85th minute. This was a much needed win for Enzo Maresca’s men as they needed to grab all three points, after dropping points last game. It was not a good performance but they were lucky to get a win at the Vitality stadium.
The Blue’s boss praised new signing Jadon Sancho’s debut following the game speaking to Sky Sports. He says;
“I have the feeling Jadon needs love.”
“Jadon is a very good player and I knew, because I know him, that he is a very good player and can help us. Now all the noise around him, I don’t care. With us he’s very polite, training well on and off the ball. We are happy for him.”
Chelsea Player Ratings against Bournemouth
The Blue’s managed to edge past the Cherries’ in a tight game. We will take a look at the Chelsea player performances and rate them accordingly.
Goalkeeper and Defence:
Robert Sanchez (8.5/10):
The Spanish keeper gave away a penalty but redeemed himself brilliantly. He was busy throughout the game and kept Evanilson at bay.
Axel Disasi (6/10):
The French defender was deployed at a new position, he struggled to keep up with the quick counter attacks. Lots of improvement needed.
Wesley Fofana (7/10):
Much improved performance from the 23-year old. However, gave away the ball cheaply which conceded the penalty. He was very efficient in buildup.
Levi Colwill (7/10):
By far the best defender for Chelsea so far in this season. Solid at the back, and efficient in possession.
Marc Cucurella (6.5/10):
Solid defensively, and much better performance in the opposite end as well. Lucky to not have received a second yellow following a rash challenge.
Midfield:
Moises Caicedo (7/10):
Couldnt dictate the tempo of the midfield, but was excellent dropping deep and defending. He managed to kept the Bournemouth midfield at bay.
Renato Veiga (7/10):
Yet another solid defensive display, however couldn’t add much in possession as the Cherries’ dominated the midfield.
Cole Palmer (6.5/10):
A quiet evening for the Blues’ best player currently. He was challenged physically and wasn’t given any ground.
Attack:
Noni Madueke (6/10):
The winger was not able to influence the game as he would’ve liked to, but he looked dangerous at times taking defenders on.
Pedro Neto (5/10):
His worst performance in the Chelsea shirt so far. Couldn’t get on the ball, looked clueless often. A day to forget for the Portuguese.
Nicolas Jackson (4/10):
His issues from the previous season still persist. Missed clear cut chances and failed to link up. Chelsea do need a striker!
Substitutes:
Jadon Sancho (7.5/10):
The perfect start for the former Man United and Dortmund winger. Looked confident and combined brilliantly with Nkunku for the winner. Brilliant assist!
Joao Felix (6/10):
Replaced Madueke in the second half, could not add anything to the attack. The Cherries’ defended him well.
Christopher Nkunku (8/10):
He deserves to start after such a brilliant performance. Scored a brilliant goal when Chelsea really needed it.
Tosin Adarabioyo (5/10):
Added depth in the defence late in the game, helped the Blues’ secure a massive cleansheet.
Manager:
Enzo Maresca (6/10):
The manager should be concerned with the performance of his team against a comparatively weaker opposition. Chelsea were poor defensively and were lucky to not concede because of their keeper’s heroics.
However, his substitutions were on point which proved to be the game changer. However, he must improve things in order to succeed this season. Any other stronger opposition would’ve punished them.
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