Chelsea end their nine-year wait for the UEFA Champions League, securing the coveted trophy with a hard-fought 1-0 win over Manchester City this evening. It was a valiant display from the Blues, who had to defend a slender one-goal lead that was scored by Kai Havertz, for the most part of the proceedings.
It was an intense game that mostly played out in spaces, largely going down to speed and skill in a short area of attack for both sides. Chelsea made well use of their opportunities and prevailed, though mainly thanks to a terrific defensive performance.
Chelsea Player Ratings Vs Manchester City
Edouard Mendy 7/10
In a game where Chelsea simply had to remain resilient at the back, the composure from their goalkeeper was an absolute must. Edouard Mendy delivered in that regard, looking solid as ever, notably taking care of an attempted cross from inside the box late in the game.
Cesar Azpilicueta 8/10
Cesar Azpilicueta produced a remarkable defensive display at the right-hand side of Chelsea’s three-man backline. He read the long balls extremely well while providing cover for Reece James whenever possible.
Thiago Silva 7.5/10
Thiago Silva started the game well, looking like a rock at the heart of the Chelsea backline. His night, unfortunately, was cut short due to an injury he picked up in the first half.
Antonio Rudiger 8.5/10
Antonio Rudiger was among the best performers for Chelsea in this game. The German looked determined to keep the clean sheet, notably producing a goal-saving tackle on Phil Foden. Also looked unbeatable in his tackles and ground duels. A monstrous performance.
Reece James 9/10
Reece James should make a strong case for being Chelsea’s best player on the night. The young right-back completely shut Raheem Sterling down, looked very comfortable in possession, especially in the first half, while his positioning was top-notch. A world-class display.
Ben Chilwell 8/10
Ben Chilwell produced a focused defensive display in the left wingback position. Although the left-back did have certain nervy moments, he did a wonderful job of minimising the threat of Riyad Mahrez.
Jorginho 8/10
Jorginho was the brains behind Chelsea’s second line of press. His positioning in the middle of the park was crucial for the Blues, with and without possession, and at the end, things paid off for Thomas Tuchel.
N’Golo Kante 9/10
N’Golo Kante was the grit to Jorginho’s grace in Chelsea midfield. The Frenchman covered a lot of ground, got his tackles absolutely spot on and sat solidly just ahead of the backline during the final stages of the game. Another man of the match candidate for Chelsea.
Kai Havertz 7.5/10
Kai Havertz was Chelsea’s best forward in this game. The young German proved his worth with his silky movements and terrific understanding with his teammates, notably scoring the winner in the first half.
Mason Mount 7.5/10
Mason Mount may not have had a particularly consistent game in the attacking department, but the playmaker produced the exquisite pass that led to Chelsea’s opener in the first half.
Timo Werner 7/10
Timo Werner looked very bad when he missed two clear cut opportunities in the first half. The German, though, made amends with his off the ball movements that completely tore apart the heart of the Man City backline.
SUBSTITUTES
Andreas Christensen 8.5/10
Andreas Christensen had the onus of replacing the injured Silva, and the defender lived up to the expectations just fine, putting in a monstrous defensive performance against Manchester City. He was indeed a rock at the back for Tuchel’s men, making multiple challenges and stopping the opposition on their tracks.
Christian Pulisic 5/10
Christian Pulisic might have emerged as the scapegoat had Chelsea failed to win this game, as the American international missed a glorious scoring opportunity just after coming on.
Mateo Kovacic 6/10
A late replacement for Werner, who added the extra body in midfield. Did well to offer defensive support in the middle of the park.
