“I don’t expect Pochettino to look him finish first half” “he must be bench on wednesday” – Chelsea fans send serious word to 22-year-old Chelsea star
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In a disheartening sequence of events, the Blues found themselves succumbing to their fourth consecutive away defeat, a bitter pill to swallow that left them languishing in the 10th spot in the Premier League hierarchy. The festive cheer eluded Chelsea this Christmas, courtesy of a relentless Wolves side that ruthlessly exploited the wasteful display at the Molineux Stadium.
The tale of woe unfolded as Mario Lemina, capitalizing on Pablo Sarabia’s well-delivered corner, nodded home to set the stage for Gary O’Neil’s squad. Matt Doherty, with a decisive flourish, sealed the fate of the encounter in favor of the Midlands outfit. Despite Christopher Nkunku’s valiant attempt to salvage the match from the bench, heading in a stoppage-time goal, the efforts fell short, and Chelsea bowed out with a 2-1 defeat.
The trio of Raheem Sterling, Nicolas Jackson, and Armando Broja found themselves entangled in the web of missed opportunities, squandering gilt-edged chances that could have altered the course of the contest.
On the battleground of Molineux, Nizaar Kinsella bore witness to the Christmas Eve drama, offering insights into the individual performances of the Chelsea ensemble.
Djordje Petrovic, earning a commendable rating of 7, showcased his shot-stopping prowess and executed his sweeper-keeper duties with finesse, albeit unable to thwart Lemina’s decisive header.
Malo Gusto, with a score of 7, emerged as a dynamic attacking outlet, venturing forward at will and crafting a significant chance for Broja.
Axel Disasi, rated at 6, exhibited magnetism for the ball during set pieces, adept at clearing every incoming cross. However, an error allowed Hee-Chan Hwang a chance to disrupt the defensive fortitude.
Thiago Silva, securing a 7, demonstrated defensive astuteness with a crucial block against Pablo Sarabia’s goal-bound shot. Despite marshalling the defense effectively, a lapse resulted in conceding a cheap free-kick.
Levi Colwill, with a score of 6, delivered a reserved defensive performance, prioritizing his duties at the back.
Lesley Ugochukwu, also earning a 6, showcased marked improvement from his previous start, blocking a Joao Gomes shot before succumbing to injury.
Conor Gallagher, garnering a rating of 6, assumed the role of a vocal leader on the pitch and posed a threat with long-range shots.
Cole Palmer, struggling with a score of 5, endured a lackluster display marred by dissent, earning a booking and subsequent suspension for the next game against Crystal Palace.
Raheem Sterling, securing a 6, emerged as Chelsea’s danger man but found himself culpable for squandering significant chances, including a three-on-one opportunity against Jose Sa. Despite being the best attacker on the day, a subpar offensive showing was further tainted by a yellow card for dissent.
Armando Broja, with a rating of 5, floundered with two early chances, displaying ponderous decision-making and an unfortunate air shot following a Gusto cross.
The substitutes made their presence felt, with Mykhailo Mudryk earning a commendable 7 for lifting Chelsea’s spirits upon entry. Christopher Nkunku, awarded an 8, injected vigor into the proceedings with a dangerous effort on target and a consolation goal in extra time, capitalizing on Raheem Sterling’s cross.
Benoit Badiashile, with a disappointing rating of 4, grappled with discomfort on the ball and contributed to conceding a goal through a defensive lapse.
Noni Madueke, returning to action with a score of 5, skewed his only shot well wide of the goal.
Ian Maatsen, listed as N/A, remained an unused substitute in a match marked by the ebb and flow of fortunes.
Unused subs included Bettinelli, Bergstrom, Lavia, and Matos.
