Importance Score: 6 / 100 🟠
Chelsea climbed into the Premier League top four after securing a narrow 1-0 victory against Tottenham Hotspur at Stamford Bridge. Enzo Fernandez’s headed goal in the second half proved decisive in the tightly contested London derby, while VAR disallowed strikes from Moises Caicedo and Pape Matar Sarr.
Chelsea Player Ratings: Premier League Victory Over Tottenham
Starting XI
Goalkeeper
Robert Sanchez: 6
Fortunate when Pape Matar Sarr was penalized for fouling Nicolas Jackson before firing a relatively straightforward shot from distance. Later redeemed himself by producing a fine save to deny Son Heung-min a late equalizer and preserve the three points.
Defenders
Malo Gusto: 7
A consistent attacking threat on the right flank. The 21-year-old demonstrates the potential to be a first-rate full-back for Chelsea for many seasons if he maintains his fitness.
Trevoh Chalobah: 6
Embraced the derby atmosphere, getting involved in a minor altercation with Rodrigo Bentancur and Cristian Romero. Contributed to the team achieving a valuable clean sheet.
Levi Colwill: 5
Failed to make a significant impact and was unsuccessful in all five of his attempted duels.
Marc Cucurella: 6
Less of an offensive presence than usual but effectively nullified Wilson Odobert before the Tottenham winger was substituted around the hour mark.
Midfielders
Moises Caicedo: 8
Chelsea’s standout performer, unfortunate to see a spectacular volley ruled out by VAR, which would have extended their lead. Demonstrated excellent distribution with accurate long passes, dominated ground duels, and maintained impressive pass completion.
Enzo Fernandez: 7
The match-winner. Cole Palmer delivered a precise cross, and Fernandez’s intelligent movement allowed him a free header, which he converted decisively.
Pedro Neto: 6
Won three fouls and fashioned two opportunities for teammates, indicating an energetic performance. Notably, he has assumed set-piece responsibilities from Palmer.
Forwards
Cole Palmer: 7
Registered his first assist since December, setting up the winning goal. While not as centrally involved as often seen, occasionally drifting wide, he displayed encouraging signs of regaining top form.
Jadon Sancho: 4
Unlucky not to have given Chelsea the lead, as Guglielmo Vicario made an excellent save to deny him in the latter stages of the first half. Otherwise, offered little of consequence.
Nicolas Jackson: 3
His most notable contribution was drawing the foul from Sarr which preceded Tottenham’s disallowed goal. Largely ineffective in attack, he had limited touches and failed to capitalize on his one clear chance.
Substitutes
Noni Madueke: 5
Offered little more than Jadon Sancho, the player he replaced, struggling to influence the game.
Reece James: 6
Used cautiously as Enzo Maresca manages his return to full fitness.
Tosin Adarabioyo: 6
Played a part in securing the victory during the extended stoppage time.
Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall: 6
Came on for Fernandez in the 91st minute.