A classic encounter between Chelsea and Barcelona came to an end with the Blues drawing 1-1 at home. Messi finally broke his duck courtesy of some lazy defending from Christensen and the Blues will now have to go into the second leg hoping to at least get a scoring draw at the Nou Camp. Here is how the Chelsea players fared on the night.
Thibaut Courtois: 6.5
Did not have much to do as he was extremely well shielded by his defence. Could not have done anything to save the goal he conceded.
Victor Moses: 7
A solid shift down at right wing back from the Nigerian. He still needs to work on his attacking threat as he slowed down the game on a number of occasions.
Cesar Azpilicueta: 9
Did not put a foot wrong all game and was extremely organized with his leadership on the pitch for the Blues. Captain’s performance.
Andreas Christensen: 7
A good outing from the young Dan to keep the threat of Luis Suarez at bay. However, he was casual with his passing and gifted Barcelona with a goal much to the dismay of Chelsea fans.
Antonio Rudiger: 8
Another terrific shift from the German, he showed his excellent defensive abilities.
Marcos Alonso: 8
A good defensive display from the Spaniard. Hit a solid free-kick but it was saved by the Barcelona goalkeeper. He will want to continue his good form for the second leg as well.
N’Golo Kante: 9.5
A perfect outing from the Frenchman. The little midfielder kept Messi quiet all game and was extremely aggressive but smart with his defending. One of the contenders for the man of the match.
Cesc Fabregas: 8.5
Did his passing and creating a bit with absolute ease as always. However, he was also on board today to carry out his defensive duties and helped Kane double up to stop Messi on multiple occasions.
Pedro: 6.5
Another energetic but clueless performance from Pedro. He was full of running but nothing from the Spaniard was tactical except his falling back to help Chelsea maintain their defensive shape. He will need to learn to release the ball better and help Hazard and Willian on the counter.
Eden Hazard: 7.5
The Belgian was dangerous whenever he got the ball however he faded away as the game went on. Drew multiple fouls to help Chelsea’s cause and give the defenders rest. He will be ready and eager to fire at Camp Nou and will be Chelsea’s best hope for the away goal in the second leg.
Willian: 9.5
Today’s man of the match. He hit the post twice and scored a world-class goal. He was unplayable on the counter and earned Chelsea a well-deserved lead.
