Chelsea carried on from where they left last weekend after a comfortable 2-0 victory against Ronald Koeman’s Everton. First half goals from Spaniard duo of Alvaro Morata and Cesc Fabregas were enough to the see the side through.
Everton never really threatened the Blues in the first half as Chelsea played with confidence. Morata assisted Fabregas for the first goal, which was a beautiful outside of the boot effort. Morata then went on to grab one for himself after heading in Azpilicueta’s delightful cross with aplomb.
Antonio Conte will be pleased with the side who did enough to see out the game in the second half as Chelsea head into the international break with 6 points from 3 games.
Here are the Chelsea players’ ratings against Everton:
Thibaut Courtois – 7/10
The Belgian was not troubled by Everton’s attack and that is a measure of Chelsea’s dominance. He did well to tip over a late effort from the Merseysiders over the bar.
Cesar Azpilicueta – 8/10
Captaining the side for the first time at Stamford Bridge and he must be delighted with his side’s display. He was always there to snuff out any Everton build up and he showed his attacking prowess as well with a delicious cross that Morata converted.
David Luiz – 7.5/10
Largely untroubled by Everton’s attackers as he enjoyed a comfortable night. Got forward often as well with a few eye catching give and go’s with his teammates.
Antonio Rudiger – 7/10
The German seems to have taken the opportunity provided by Cahill’s suspension with both hands. Excellent in the air, great reading of the game, and some important interceptions from the former AS Roma defender. He will look to keep his place in the side once Cahill is back as well.
Victor Moses – 6.5/10
The Nigerian was solid defensively but he did not offer much in attack. He will look at the final few days of the transfer window with keen interest as his position in Chelsea’s first XI is the most threatened one currently.
Cesc Fabregas – 8/10
Conte’s decision to start him over Bakayoko was vindicated as the Spaniard found his magic hat. Absolutely composed in the middle of the park, pulling the strings for Chelsea. Showed immense class in his goal which he scored with the outside of his boot.
N’Golo Kante – 7.5/10
The Frenchman absolutely bossed the midfield and allowed Fabregas to get forward as he liked. Hugely influential throughout the game as he keeps improving his all-round performance.
Marcos Alonso – 7/10
Chelsea’s Wembley hero enjoyed great freedom down the left flank as he consistently put Holgate on the back foot. Got forward very often and was not asked to do much of a defensive job, as well as Chelsea, dominated proceedings.
Willian – 8/10
Just as Hazard nears his return, the Brazilian put up a brilliant show. He was at the centre of most of Chelsea’s attacks. His link-up play with Morata was excellent. Likely to make way for Eden Hazard in the next game but will hope to compete with Pedro for his place in the side.
Pedro – 7/10
Quieter than usual as he made his first start in the league this season. His early bicycle attempt would surely have been a contender for goal of the season had it gone in. He will have to do more to keep his place in the side with Willian putting up great performances.
Morata – 8.5/10
2 goals, 2 assists in 2 home games and all with his head. The Spaniard will be delighted with his start in England. Was involved in both of Chelsea’s goals and will be growing in confidence as he gets accustomed to life in England.
Substitutes:
Tiemoue Bakayoko – 7/10
Won almost every challenge he contested after replacing Pedro. His partnership with Kante looks impregnable and will prove to be vital for big games.
Michy Batshuayi – N/A
Saw plenty of the ball after replacing Morata but the goal scoring opportunities eluded him.
Andreas Christensen – N/A
Replaced Moses late in the game as Conte sought to close out the game.
