The 1-0 win for Chelsea over Pafos is likely not going to be a game that will live long in the memory during Liam Rosenior’s tenure in charge.
The Blues struggled for large portions of the match, and relied on a late Moises Caicedo header to break down their stubborn opponents.
Despite the frustrating performance, there were some positives to take from the result. Estevao Willian impressed greatly off the bench to help get them over the line.
Chelsea have set up a crucial final group stage game against Antonio Conte’s Napoli side next week, knowing a win will almost certainly book them a place in the Round of 16 straight away.
Chelsea FC v Pafos FC - UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD7
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Liam Rosenior breaks Chelsea passing record in win vs Pafos
The Stamford Bridge faithful showed their frustration at Rosenior’s very patient style of play, as Chelsea dominated with 71% possession.
The Blues also completed 94.5% of their passes according to OptaJoe, which is the highest percentage the club have recorded since these records began.
Chelsea fans have not been known to take too kindly to patient football. Enzo Maresca was jeered in his first game in charge for trying to build up from the back against Manchester City.
Blues supporters were heard criticising Rosenior’s style of play against Charlton in his first game too, and he still faces an uphill task to get everyone on board.
Chelsea team v Pafos
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Rosenior ‘devastated’ after Chelsea vs Pafos
Despite the big three points, there were a number of disappointing aspects of the evening which left the manager unhappy.
Rosenior admitted he was devastated for Filip Jorgensen, who picked up an injury in the first half. He looked as if he would be in for his first clean sheet of the season.
The boss was also defensive of Liam Delap, whose performance came in for criticism last night.
What have you made of Liam Delap in a Chelsea shirt?🤔
Liam Delap's Chelsea stats vs Pafos
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The Englishman will be well aware the performance levels will need to increase before this weekend against Crystal Palace, as well as facing Napoli in the Champions League on Wednesday 28 January.
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