Chelsea won a huge game at Wembley against Tottenham Hotspur, braving a storm of Spurs attacks and winning it late.
The Blues took the lead through Marcos Alonso’s stunning free kick, then held on as Spurs besieged their goal for the rest of the first half.
Not much changed in the second period, and the pressure eventually told when Michy Batshuayi headed into his own net. At that stage the Blues were just holding on for a draw, but Marcos Alonso burst into the box late on to somehow win the game
Here are our ratings from today’s featured Chelsea players…
Starting Eleven:
Thibaut Courtois – 7 – Gave the fans an early scare when he spilled Kane’s shot. Made a couple of crucial stops with his body and claimed high balls with confidence.
Cesar Azpilicueta – 7 – Made several uncharacteristic errors as the Blues struggled with a makeshift defence in a new formation but ultimately held solid and saved the team with smart closing down in the second half.
David Luiz – 8 – Struggled a little in a midfield role that saw him look a little lost at times. Won the free kick that Alonso scored. In the second half made more and more important interventions, including the tackle that won the ball to set up Alonso’s winner.
Andreas Christensen- 8 – Had a tough game up against some top players, looking a little troubled at times but also showing some moments of class. Very defensively aware and kept Kane quiet.
Antonio Rudiger- 7 – Also struggled a little in the first half as Harry Kane targeted him and picked up a silly yellow for kicking the ball away.
Victor Moses – 7 – Another solid performer who showed grit and guile to hold off Spurs’ dangerous left flank.
N’Golo Kante – 9 – A solid, Kante game throughout, but suddenly turned on the afterburners in the last 10 minutes, hauling the direction of the match around and creating a great platform for the Blues.
Marcos Alonso – 9 – Had struggled to create chances down the left and saw several attacks break down at his feet before he lashed home a gorgeous free kick to give his team the lead. Continued his solid defensive effort then won the game with a late run into the box.
Tiemoue Bakayoko- 7 – Very impressive for a half fit midfielder playing in his Premier League debut, showed several flashes of the burst that will hopefully see him become an upgrade on Matic.
Willian – 6 – Isolated in the first half and messed up a fantastic chance for Chelsea to double their lead. Several attacks broke down at his feet in the second half and he was unable to help the Blues keep the ball. Hit the post just before coming off to be replaced by the lively Pedro.
Alvaro Morata – 6 – Blew an incredible early chance as he headed wide when unmarked in the six yard box five minutes in. Was very isolated up front but made important contributions defensively.
