Chelsea v Liverpool player ratings
Estevao’s stoppage-time winner – his first goal for Chelsea – gave them a dramatic 2-1 victory over the champions at Stamford Bridge. Here’s how we rated each Blues player.
Robert Sanchez: 7
The Chelsea keeper was only threatened occasionally, despite Liverpool enjoying reasonable amounts of possession. Made good stops from Mo Salah and Ryan Gravenberch as the Merseysiders tried to get back into the game at the start of the second half.
Marc Cucurella: 8
Was up against Liverpool forward and ex-Chelsea man Salah. Always on hand, particularly in the first half, with vital clearances and did well to restrict the Reds for long spells. Supplied the dangerous low cross for Estavao to tuck home for the winning goal.
Benoit Badiashile: 7
Good understanding with Josh Acheampong at the heart of the Chelsea defence. Kept the threat of Reds’ strike pair Alexander Isak and Salah to a minimum before picking up a knock and being replaced by boss Enzo Maresca.
Josh Acheampong: 7
Had the unenviable task of controlling the threat of expensive Liverpool forward Isak. However the former Blues academy defender coped well until he limped off in the second half, which must be a concern for Maresca.
Malo Gusto: 6
Worked hard at denied Liverpool space and time to play through the home midfield. Could have perhaps done more to prevent Cody Gakpo from stealing into the six yard box to rifle in Liverpool’s leveller in 62 minutes.
Moises Caicedo: 9
The midfielder set Stamford Bridge alight in 14 minutes with a stunning right footed shot from 22 yards which arrowed into the top corner of the Liverpool net to put the Blues ahead. Went close with another rangy effort late on.
Reece James: 7
The Blues captain relished the physical battle. Moved into the heart of the defence, enforced by injuries to Badiashile and Acheampong to mark Isak. Coped well in a battle with Liverpool’s Swedish hit man.
Alejandro Garnacho: 7
Interesting early battles with Reds’ right back Conor Bradley. Looked sharp and hustled Liverpool out of possession at times before being substituted.
Enzo Fernandez: 8
A big job in the centre of the pitch for the Argentine – one that he relished. Tried to get forward to help the forward line as Chelsea’s efforts to score became increasingly anxious. Headed against the post in the final minute before Estavao netted the Blues’ dramatic stoppage time winner.
Pedro Neto: 6
Improved as the first half came to a conclusion. Busy on the right side and caused the odd problem for Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk. Tired as the game went on before being replaced.
Joao Pedro: 5
Following his late red card against Benfica in midweek with an uneventful performance. Failed to substantially trouble Van Dijk and no surprise when he made way for Estevao.
Romeo Lavia: 6
Came on for the injured Badiashile in 54 minutes. Linked up well with Fernandez in the engine room as Chelsea looked to add to the earlier goal by Caicedo.
Jorrel Hato: 6
The Dutchman replaced Acheampong in 67 minutes to shore up the Blues’ defence. Coped well as Liverpool looked sharp on the break on occasion.
Estevao: 8
Replaced Pedro in the second half to add some zest to Chelsea going forward as they sought out a winner. The Brazilian worked hard in all areas and stepped in for a late close range effort to seal the points for Maresca’s men.
Jamie Gittens: 6
Came on for Garnacho as part of a triple substitution in 74 minutes. Drew a good save from Liverpool keeper Georgi Mamardashvili after a powerful run down the left.
Marc Guiu: 5
Replaced Neto in the latter stages. Touch and control was lacking in front of goal.
