“We will be honest about his style of playing because we really couldn’t rest throughout his time on the pitch. He’s dangerous”- Arsenal duo Saka and Martinelli says they now have ‘huge respect’ for one Chelsea star after his performance at the Stamford bridge against them last night
“We will be honest about his style of playing because we really couldn’t rest throughout his time on the pitch. He’s dangerous”- Arsenal duo Saka and Martinelli says they now have ‘huge respect’ for one Chelsea star after his performance at the Stamford bridge against them last night
Chelsea showed they were here to stay in an entertaining draw against Arsenal at Stamford Bridge.As the temperature dropped at Stamford Bridge and the home fans grew louder, Arsenal looked to quiet them down, taking the momentum heading into the final international break of the season. And they did, when Gabriel Martinelli beat Robert Sanchez at the near post.
But one thing Enzo Maresca has changed this season is Chelsea’s mentality – they don’t give up. Pedro Neto, who replaced Raheem Sterling (now at Arsenal and wearing his No. 7 jersey in the Chelsea squad), struck an absolutely unstoppable shot to level the score, sending the home fans into raptures and bringing Stamford Bridge to life in a way that had not been felt this season.
Although they didn’t manage to secure the win they fought for, Chelsea faced a team that was second in the league and showed no fear, matching them blow for blow throughout the game.
Here’s how we rated the Chelsea players:
Robert Sanchez – 5
Sometimes slow with his distribution, but his inability to stop Martinelli’s near-post strike cost him a higher rating.
Missed a good chance to put Chelsea ahead in the first half after Neto brilliantly set him up. Worked tirelessly on the right throughout the game.
Marc Cucurella – 6
Tasked with marking the elusive Bukayo Saka, Cucurella was almost always in his vicinity. This limited his attacking contributions but he was solid defensively.
Levi Colwill – 7
Booked in the first half for a robust tackle on Saka, but that didn’t diminish his performance. Aerially dominant and calm under pressure.
Wesley Fofana – 8
Not many players in the world can play through the pain Fofana has, but he soldiered on and was nearly unbeatable for most of the match.
Romeo Lavia – 7
It seemed like Lavia was tasked with marking Martin Ødegaard, and he stuck to his assignment well, limiting Ødegaard’s influence. His passing was solid with few mistakes.
Moisés Caicedo – 7
An omnipresent performance in midfield. Always first to the ball, Caicedo was constantly available to receive passes and break up play.
Cole Palmer – 7
