Graham Potter’s dream return to Stamford Bridge spoiled by Neto and Palmer as Chelsea stage comeback to win 2-1 against West Ham
CHELSEA seized the opportunity provided by their competitors’ errors to climb to fourth in the Premier League, achieving a 2-1 win against West Ham.
Enzo Maresca made several tactical adjustments that increased the game’s intensity in the second half, leading to Pedro Neto scoring an equaliser in the 63rd minute after a shot from Fernandez.
Jarrod Bowen had given West Ham the lead by taking advantage of a mistake from Levi Colwill.
Fans’ spirits soared as the home side gathered momentum, culminating in a deflected shot from Cole Palmer that sent the Bridge into euphoria as they went 2-1 ahead.
Here’s Lloyd Canfield’s evaluation of Chelsea’s performance for SunSport.
Filip Jorgensen – 7
It would have been difficult to disappoint Chelsea fans following Robert Sanchez’s recent displays.
He had little opportunity with the opening goal but made several vital saves to keep his team within one goal by halftime.
Those saves were crucial, and he should expect to start against Brighton next.
Reece James – 6
His crosses from the right were consistently effective in the first half, but there was no one sharp enough in the box to convert them into assists.
Defensively solid, he ultimately had little to do in that area as Chelsea dominated the flanks.
Tosin Adarabioyo – 7
Strong in the air and decent on the ground.
He could have done a bit more to prevent Bowen from scoring, as he appeared to merely watch him shoot, but overall, he performed well and is confirming his status as a dependable Premier League centre back.
His crucial block in stoppage time may have made the difference between securing three points and just one.
Levi Colwill – 3
His poor backpass set Bowen up perfectly to give the Hammers their lead just before halftime.
While his sluggish first half improved after his team took the lead, he was fortunate not to cost his side points this evening.
Marc Cucurella – 7
He effectively transitioned from left back to midfield in a role that fits him well, showing strong tackles and good aerial ability throughout the game.
He positioned himself well going forward but failed to add any finishing touches to his performance this time.
Moises Caicedo – 7
The home fans have become accustomed to his relentless tackling and spirited play.
He exhibited flashes of this in the first half and continued into a matured, controlled second 45 minutes where it seemed he had Mo Kudus’ number.
Enzo Fernández – 5
He missed a golden opportunity to give Chelsea the lead, rolling the ball past the left-hand post from a few yards out.
His blocked shot led to Neto’s equaliser, but overall, the Argentine appeared a bit off the pace in midfield.
Noni Madueke – 4
He could have bagged a goal and an assist in the opening half-hour after being set up by Nicolas Jackson and providing a perfect chance for Fernandez, but neither opportunity was converted.
His highlight in the second half was an exchange with the referee before being substituted for Christopher Nkunku.
Cole Palmer – 7
He had a quiet first half, with fans comparing him to Andy Irving, but soon proved them wrong.
He nearly scored a free-kick reminiscent of his effort against Brighton earlier this season, but it was well saved by Alphonse Areola.
His deflected shot ultimately gave his side the lead as he became more involved in the match.
Jadon Sancho – 4
His quick feet made him a threat on the left side in the first half, but once again, his lack of end product could have cost Chelsea, had his replacement not stepped up.
He was substituted just five minutes into the second half for Pedro Neto.
Nicolas Jackson – 3
He showed some promising signs early with a good pass to Noni Madueke, who narrowly missed the target.
However, aside from that, he seemed to lack confidence, performing poorly before being replaced by 18-year-old Marc Guiu.
SUBS
Marc Guiu (Nicolas Jackson, 51) – 5
Didn’t impact the game significantly after entering for Nicolas Jackson.
He certainly appeared more confident in the Conference League, and gaining Premier League experience will be valuable.
Pedro Neto (Jadon Sancho, 51) – 8
This was his best performance in a Chelsea shirt to date.
A composed finish brought him level before his excellent build-up led to Palmer’s deflected effort.
He displayed great energy, work rate, and end product as Maresca’s own Portuguese star.
Malo Gusto (Reece James, 60) – 6
He brought energy and strength after taking over from captain Reece James, playing a role in the goal that secured their advantage.
His passing was solid, and he resembled more of the player who garnered fan admiration at Stamford Bridge last season.
Christopher Nkunku (Noni Madueke, 60) – 5
He fulfilled his duties out of position on the left side in Jadon Sancho’s spot.