Josh Acheampong was part of a Chelsea team that beat Nottingham Forest in their first game back after the international break.
Although Chelsea were pretty poor in the opening 45 minutes, they came out rejuvenated in the second period to clinch a 3-0 victory in the Premier League at the City Ground.
Blues defender Josh Acheampong, who was starting back-to-back games, broke the deadlock with a superb header in the 49th minute. Incidentally, it was the academy graduate’s first senior goal. Afterwards, Pedro Neto doubled the advantage for the visitors with an emphatic free kick. Reece James then added a third to put the icing on the cake.
Acheampong impressed for England’s Under-21s during the international break, where he made the game look so easy at centre-back. It is easy to see why the teenager is now beginning to get more minutes in Enzo Maresca’s team at club level.
Nottingham Forest v Chelsea - Premier League
Photo by Darren Walsh/Chelsea FC via Getty Images
Jason Cundy reaction to Josh Acheampong performance
Jason Cundy was full of praise for the way that Chelsea youngster Acheampong performed against Forest this weekend.
Cundy said via Chelsea’s official app (1:55pm, 18 October): “Acheampong has had another solid game. Every time I watch him I come away always impressed… He’s happy to stride over that halfway line and carry the ball. Technically very, very good. He’s an excellent young prospect. He’s never ever let Chelsea down.”
On top of his goal, Acheampong had plenty of defensive work to do against Forest, particularly in a challenging first half.
The main takeaway from the teenager whenever he plays is that he’s super composed. He’s got great physicality and decisiveness in his work, too.
Chelsea promised Acheampong he would play more often in the 2025-26 season, and he’s doing so based on merit.
Nottingham Forest v Chelsea - Premier League
Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images
Josh Acheampong stats vs Nottingham Forest
Acheampong’s individual statistics from Chelsea’s win over Forest looked particularly impressive (FOTMOB).
Minutes played – 81
Goals – 1
Total shots – 2
Accurate passes – 49/53 (92%)
Touches – 68
Clearances – 3
Interceptions – 4
Recoveries – 6
Dribbled past – 0
Ground duels won – 3/5 (60%)
Aerial duels won – 1/1 (100%)
Was fouled – 2
Fouls committed – 1
Match rating – 8.3
Unless there’s an injury, Acheampong deserves to retain his spot in the starting line-up. He’s only growing in stature and confidence with these dominant performances, which is proof that Cobham continues to produce super young talents.