Chelsea have thoroughly dominated Brighton & Hove Albion in previous meetings, but their current dreadful run made them cautious ahead of the contest against the Premier League new boys at AMEX Stadium. The Seagulls, under Chris Hughton, is fighting hard to retain their top-tier status and the game against the reigning Champions was a massive test of resilience for his men. The game was not meant to be a stroll in the park for the Blues, particularly due to the absence of Alvaro Morata and Pedro who received marching orders in their midweek FA Cup replay against Norwich. The injury concern of custodian Thibaut Courtois made things even more difficult for Antonio Conte’s men against the hosts this afternoon.
The outing, however, ended up in a 4-0 win for Chelsea despite encouraging display from the hosts and the Blues are now back on track after a torrid run.
Below are the Chelsea players rated in their comprehensive 4-0 win against Brighton.
Willy Caballero: 8
Caballero got a surprise start following the injury absence of Thibaut Courtois. Was lucky not to concede a spot-kick despite fouling Ezequiel Schelotto inside the box. His decision making was dicy at times but the Argentine made one stunning reaction save in the first-half to deny Tommer Hemed from close range. It seemed to be his lucky day as he was beaten by Davy Propper but the Dutchman’s header struck the post. Denied Schelotto marvellously one-on-one midway in the second-half. A hard-earned clean-sheet for Chelsea’s second-choice custodian.
Cesar Azpilicueta: 8
Calm and composed as always, dealt well with Brighton’s long balls, and made his presence known with apt positioning and crucial clearances.
Andreas Christensen: 7.5
The youngster was impressive once more as he pulled off some crucial blocks and interceptions to deny the Seagulls who were pushing hard to stage a comeback at AMEX. Was taken off early in the second half following a head injury and was replaced by David Luiz.
Antonio Rudiger: 6
Had a nervy afternoon as the likes of Gross and Schelotto kept on creating opportunities from his side.
Victor Moses: 8.5
His cross was deflected in the path of Eden Hazard who earned the visitors an early lead. Tried to make some positive runs forward but was mostly engaged to help his ‘ back-three’ and stop the Seagulls’ crossing game. Showed his composure towards the end by controlling Musonda’s pass and made a lovely finish to take the scoreline to 4-0.
N’Golo Kante: 7
Kante took time to settle in and delivered a much improved second-half performance where he broke down numerous Brighton moves in the middle of the park.
Tiemoue Bakayoko: 7
Had a much-improved display and his runs, movements and pressing helped the Blues win back possession and constitute counter-attacking movements.
Marcos Alonso: 5
Was troubled by Schelotto persistently, could not offer his presence up front and almost caused a howler against Schelotto which was stunningly denied by Caballero one-on-one. Was taken off in the second-half following his dismal display and was replaced by Davide Zappacosta.
Willian: 8.5
Scored a brilliant goal to double the lead within six minutes into the game and almost scored again with a sublime free-kick which, however, didn’t end up into the back of the net following a combined effort of the custodian Matty Ryan and the woodwork. He assisted Hazard for Chelsea’s third and the Belgian’s second of the afternoon. Was replaced by Charly Musonda Sterling towards the end.
Eden Hazard: 9
Hazard earned his side an early lead and looked menacing whenever he had the ball on his feet. Scored a hallmark goal in the second-half as he calmly slotted in after an unstoppable run. Chelsea needed a reaction after a dreadful run and the Belgian stepped up for his side at the right time.
Michy Batshuayi: 7.5
The Belgian looked impressive up front and assisted with a back-heel for Chelsea’s second goal of the game. He, alongside Willian and Hazard, formed a lethal attacking trio that looked more purposeful for the Blues.
Substitutes
David Luiz: 7
Replaced injured Christensen early in the second-half. Brought back stability with some crucial blocks and clearances.
Davide Zappacosta: 7
Was brought in place of disappointing Marcos Alonso who was taken off after being troubled by Schelotto down the left-hand flank. Zappacosta didn’t have to do much though as Chelsea got a 3-0 lead seconds after his arrival and the hosts didn’t have enough time to stage a comeback.
Charly Musonda: 7
Was introduced in place of Willian. Registered a brilliant assist for Victor Moses’ late goal.
