Chelsea got off to a flying start in pre-season with a crisp display to beat Bayer Leverkusen in their first friendly since coming back from the Club World Cup. Estevao Willian scored his first-half goal to clinch the victory, and Joao Pedro added a late second, but the most pleasing aspect was how the game was played.
Estevao Willian had a dream start, netting early to put Chelsea ahead. The new Stamford Bridge favourite kissed the badge in celebration before his jubilant fans. The Brazilian could have had a second as Chelsea created plenty of chances during a rampant first half. The second half was much the same, with bright moments before an eager crowd, capped by Pedro’s finishing touch.
Chelsea will face Milan in a second friendly on Sunday with a spring in their step. Here’s the detailed analysis of each player:
Filip Jorgensen – Handled Leverkusen’s limited efforts with ease, claiming a high ball and saving a free kick. An uneventful night. Rating: 6
Malo Gusto – Nearly scored, which was unexpected. Forced a good save from a corner volley but gave the ball away dangerously once. Rating: 7
Josh Acheampong – Composed at centre-back, breaking lines with passes and rarely rushed. Slipped once but Tosin rescued him. Looks capable in Colwill’s absence. Rating: 6
Trevoh Chalobah – Shifted to the left and stayed solid. Reliable and adaptable as ever. Rating: 7
Marc Cucurella – Lively and physical, made late runs into the box and handled Tella well in a one-v-one. Rating: 7
Moises Caicedo – Steady in midfield alongside Santos, had his trademark long-range effort straight at the keeper. Rating: 7
Andrey Santos – Quiet but energetic, tackled well and linked up more as the game went on. Rating: 6
Estevao Willian – Settled instantly, scoring at the back post after creating chances early on. Could have scored again. Stunning debut. Rating: 9
Cole Palmer – Enjoyed himself, found space, and linked well with Estevao. Kept Leverkusen guessing. Rating: 8
Tyrique George – Struggled to impact but contributed to a couple of moves. Rating: 6
Liam Delap – Battled Tapsoba, found space behind, and was denied by Flekken’s header. Rating: 7
Pedro Neto (45’) – Constantly challenged Grimaldo, reaching the byline often. Rating: 7
Dario Essugo (45’) – Efficient and simple in his play. Rating: 6
Jorrel Hato (45’) – Showed pace in recovery and neat footwork to start an attack. Rating: 7
Reece James (64’) – One poor cross frustrated Maresca but otherwise steady in the back three. Rating: 6
Jamie Gittens (64’) – Nearly assisted Estevao straight away and showed skill before a blocked shot. Rating: 7
Joao Pedro (64’) – Dropped deep to link play and scored the second. Rating: 7
Genesis Antwi (76’) – N/A
Sam Rak-Sakyi (76’) – N/A
Aaron Anselmino (76’) – N/A
