Chelsea continued their winning streak, securing a fourth consecutive victory by trouncing Ajax 5-1 at Stamford Bridge in the Champions League. Despite a decent start from the visitors, their challenge was significantly hampered when Kenneth Taylor received a straight red card for a foul on Facundo Buonanotte. The subsequent free-kick saw Marc Guiu put Chelsea in the lead.
Soon, the hosts doubled their lead as Moises Caicedo netted his fourth goal of the season, aided by a significant deflection. Ajax managed to claw back a goal shortly afterwards, with Wout Weghorst converting a penalty. But before half-time, Enzo Fernandez re-established Chelsea’s two-goal lead from the penalty spot, Estevao Willian then scoring a spot-kick of his own to make it 4-1. The second half was quieter but there was still time for Tyrique George to add his name to the scoresheet. Express Sport rates and slates the Blues after their win…
Chelsea player ratings vs Ajax
Filip Jorgensen – 6
Only his second start this season. He guessed correctly for the penalty but may be disappointed he didn’t keep it out.
Moises Caicedo – 8
Tasked with covering at right-back. Caicedo moved into the centre of the pitch when Chelsea had the ball. He scored the game’s second goal with a solid strike, albeit a deflected one.
Wesley Fofana – 6
His fourth start this season and his Champions League debut. He did well to assist Guiu’s goal with a precise header towards the Spaniard.
Tosin Adarabioyo – 5
Back in the starting line-up, he made a crucial block around six or seven minutes in. However, Tosin conceded a needless penalty in the first half, allowing Ajax back into the game.
Jorrel Hato – 6
The Dutchman made his first European appearance for his new employers against his former ones. Playing at left-back, Hato looked comfortable in possession.
Romeo Lavia – 6
Enjoyed a second successive start. Performed well in the midfield, keeping play ticking over nicely and winning the ball on numerous occasions.
Enzo Fernandez – 8
Great to see him back after a minor knee issue. Scored a top penalty in the first-half and had a chance to double his tally with another spot kick but, like a true captain, he passed it to young Estevao to score his first Champions League goal.
Estevao Willian – 9
A first Champions League start for the Brazilian. Took some time to find his feet but eventually shone at the Bridge. Did really well to win the third penalty of the game and then convert the spot-kick himself.
Facundo Buonanotte – 7
Earned a second consecutive start in Europe. Looked lively. He’s adept at finding space in crowded areas and always eager to receive possession.
Jamie Gittens – 7
A first European start for the Blues. Looked lively. Always keen to beat his man and when he does that, it gets people off their seats. Delivered a really dangerous cross in on 37 minutes towards Buonanotte. A direct run with a teasing cross to match – that pretty much summed up his performance.
Marc Guiu – 9
For the first time in over 10 months, Guiu started a game and he certainly justified Maresca’s faith with an early goal. Despite its simplicity, his finish required calmness and composure from close range. His overall performance was outstanding, linking up the attacking play effectively and proving to be a real bother when out of possession.
Substitutes
Trevoh Chalobah (Tosin 46) – 6
Chalobah came on at half-time, donning the captain’s armband. He passed well but didn’t have much defending to do.
Andrey Santos (Fernandez 46) – 7
Santos played a significant role in George’s goal, making a positive run that set up George to score the Blues’ fifth.
Tyrique George (Guiu 46) – 7
Was it his first touch? It could very well have been. A brilliant way to announce his arrival.
Josh Acheampong (Caicedo 48) – 7
Acheampong performed well, stepping in at right-back to replace Caicedo. As usual, he was calm and composed.
Reggie Walsh (Lavia 65) – 7
A fantastic moment for the 17-year-old. Just two days after his 17th birthday, Walsh made his Champions League debut. He was very good in possession – it’s clear why Maresca rates him highly.