Estevao Willian played an important role as Chelsea beat Wolverhampton Wanderers to qualify for the Carabao Cup quarter-finals.
On Wednesday night, the Blues secured a dramatic 4-3 away victory against Premier League opposition.
Andrey Santos, Tyrique George and Estevao Willian were on the scoresheet in the opening 45 minutes during a one-sided contest. However, Wolves responded in the second period with goals from Tolu Arokodare and David Moller Wolfe to make it 3-2.
After Liam Delap was sent off for two yellow cards, there was an extremely nervous finish. Jamie Gittens scored what turned out to be the winner to put the visitors 4-2 in front, but Moller Wolfe’s stoppage time goal set up the nervous finish.
Yet again, head coach Enzo Maresca made 10 changes to his team, suggesting he’s got one eye on the weekend’s league trip to Tottenham.
Paul Merson has criticised Chelsea’s squad by claiming it’s not as strong as many people claim. While several individuals in tonight’s XI may be knocking on the door for more minutes, others disappointed with their efforts.
Estevao Willian shooting to score for Chelsea against Wolverhampton Wanderers in the Carabao Cup.
Photo by Darren Walsh/Chelsea FC via Getty Images
Jody Morris hails brilliance of Estevao Willian
Even though Chelsea put in a performance of two halves, Estevao was dazzling during his hour on the pitch.
The 18-year-old Brazilian attacker shone on the right wing, tormenting the Wolves backline. In particular, he scored a remarkable goal with a cheeky lobbed effort over the goalkeeper.
Jody Morris absolutely loved what he saw from the South American rising star in midweek.
Morris said via Chelsea’s official app (8:35pm, 29 October): “I’ve enjoyed Estevao’s first-half performance. I just thought he gave us a little bit of everything.
“You’ve got Estevao running in behind. You’ve got him coming short, going past people with the ball. You’ve got some nice little link-up play. You’ve got him pressing. 18-year-old kid who’s scored in every competition he’s played in already for his new club while becoming a little bit of a cult hero with the fans already.”
Estevao, who’s got incredible skill, has to be in contention to become a regular starter in the Premier League.
The teenage attacker has looked mature beyond his years since he joined in the summer. Based on his performances, he looks like one of the most offensive threats in the entire squad with his skill, composure and decision-making.
Estevao Willian celebrates scoring for Chelsea against Wolverhampton Wanderers in the Carabao Cup.
Photo by David Rogers/Getty Images
Estevao Willian stats in seven-goal thriller
FOTMOB provided the data from Estevao’s individual display in the memorable 4-3 success away to Wolves.
Minutes played – 61
Goals – 1
Assists – 0
Total shots – 3
Chances created – 0
Accurate passes – 13/17 (76%)
Touches – 31
Touches in opposition box – 5
Successful dribbles – 1
Accurate crosses – 2
Tackles – 1
Fouls committed – 2
Match rating – 7.5
Estevao was off the pitch by the time Chelsea’s second-half capitulation really kicked in. From his perspective, he should feel like he’s done enough to start Saturday’s league fixture away to Spurs.
Although Maresca has been cautious regarding his minutes in the Premier League, he shouldn’t hold back the Brazil international any longer because he’s ready.