Moises Caicedo scored the only goal of the game as Chelsea secured victory
Moises Caicedo scored the only goal of the game as Chelsea secured victory (Image: Getty)
Moises Caicedo emerged as the saviour for Chelsea as they clinched a last-minute victory over Pafos on Wednesday evening. The Blues believed they had taken an early lead when Enzo Fernandez directed a header into the bottom corner. However, the Argentine was deemed to have pushed defender Ken Sema in the back during the build-up to the goal.
Pafos later struck the post in the first half after Jaja's shot ricocheted off Reece James and onto the woodwork. Chelsea dominated the second half, with Pafos goalkeeper Jay Gorter arguably the standout player on the pitch, but he was unable to prevent Caicedo's header from finding the net 12 minutes from time.
Here are your Chelsea player ratings from tonight's victory...
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Chelsea player ratings vs Pafos
Filip Jorgensen - 6
Had virtually nothing to do in the first half but remained composed when the ball was played back to him following an awkward pass from Malo Gusto. Appeared to sustain some sort of injury and was substituted at the half-time break.
Malo Gusto - 6
Back in action after missing the last three matches due to injury. Executed a crucial sliding tackle to thwart a dangerous counter-attack from Pafos. Not exceptional, but not poor.
Wesley Fofana - 7
Despite a shaky start, he eventually found his footing and played a crucial role in setting up Caicedo's goal.
Benoit Badiashile - 6
Assertive, stepping into midfield a couple of times to regain possession for the Blues. Nearly provided one of the best assists you'll see, but Estevao's shot was blocked.
Jorrel Hato - 6
A well-earned start after impressing in recent appearances. Could have done better with a good chance just before half-time. Performed well at left-back.
Reece James - 6
Returned after missing a couple of games. Performed adequately. Passed it well. Substituted at half-time.
Moises Caicedo - 8
As usual, very active out of possession, particularly early on when he was trying to inject some much-needed intensity into the game. Hasn't been at his dazzling best recently but tonight was a step closer to that. Crucial moment to score the decisive goal.
Alejandro Garnacho didn't have a particularly good game for Chelsea
Alejandro Garnacho didn't have a particularly good game for Chelsea (Image: Getty)
Pedro Neto - 5
Tried to make something happen, almost too hard, it seemed at times. Another frustrating evening for the Portugal international. Things are not going his way at the moment.
Enzo Fernandez - 7
Produced an excellent pass to create a promising opportunity for Reece James on 16 minutes. Extremely unfortunate to see an early goal disallowed for a push on Sema's back. Among Chelsea's most impressive performers.
Alejandro Garnacho - 4
Kept persevering, which cannot be criticised. However, it proved another deeply frustrating display from Garnacho on Chelsea's left flank. Extremely direct but far too easy to read.
Liam Delap - 4
Virtually invisible during the first half. Showed some decent touches whilst holding possession but found it difficult.
Substitutes
Estevao - 7
Nearly made an instant impression with a right-footed volley that was smartly saved. Appeared highly threatening after entering for the second period but couldn't produce the decisive moment for the Blues.
Robert Sanchez - 6
Introduced at the interval. Had little to occupy him. When called upon, produced a vital punch from a threatening Pafos cross on 88 minutes.
Jamie Gittens - 6
Entered for the closing 20 minutes or so. Among his initial contributions was receiving a yellow card. Showed some quality touches and runs.
Joao Pedro- 6
Liam Rosenior introduced the Brazilian with limited time remaining. Unable to influence proceedings significantly but showed commitment.
Marc Cucurella - 6
Attempted to drive Chelsea forward but struggled to make a significant impact.