Chelsea made a huge leap towards the quarter-finals of the Europa Conference League last night, claiming a 2-1 win against FC Copenhagen despite not being at their best.
Reece James and Enzo Fernández got themselves on the scoresheet during the victory, handing Enzo Maresca’s side a slim lead ahead of the return leg at Stamford Bridge next week.
The victory maintained the Blues’ 100% record in Europe this campaign, extending their run to nine games in which they have won without tasting defeat - the only side to achieve such a feat this season.
Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca looks dejected after the match
Maresca made several alterations to his first-team side for the meeting yesterday, multiple of which certainly worked in his favour, allowing the side to claim a vital win despite struggling in the first half.
Numerous players impressed during the triumph, undoubtedly demonstrating that the manager made the right call for the key European meeting in Copenhagen.
Chelsea’s star performers against Copenhagen
Fernandez may not have started the encounter last night, but the Argentine midfielder would end up having a huge say on the result, tipping the game in Chelsea’s favour.
The 24-year-old came off the bench at half-time, scoring the Blues’ second goal, which would prove to be the winner after Gabriel Pereira’s late efforts for the hosts.
enzo-fernandez-chelsea
He also managed to complete 100% of the 43 passes he attempted during the triumph, being the only player who featured for 45 minutes or more to achieve such a feat.
Tyrique George was another player who grabbed his opportunity with both hands in Copenhagen, staking his claim for a regular starting role after his showing last night.
The academy graduate registered an assist and completed 95% of his passes, making himself a nuisance in attacking areas by completing 100% of his dribbles.
The teenager wasn’t the only player to showcase their talent after their recall to the side, with one other first-team member now looking undroppable after their own impressive display.
The Chelsea star who now looks as undroppable as Palmer
Over the last couple of seasons, Cole Palmer has made himself a key player for Chelsea, which is understandable given his record of 60 combined goals and assists in 76 outings since joining.
FFC Performance in Numbers
Performance in Numbers
Want data and stats? Football FanCast's Performance in Numbers series provides you with the latest match analysis from across Europe.
His importance to Maresca cannot be understated, as seen by the Italian’s decision to include him in the squad for the knockout stages after leaving him out of the group phase.
The Englishman started the game but was unable to register a goal or assist for an eighth successive game, being outshone by fellow compatriot James after his return to the side.
The 25-year-old has had his battles with injuries over the last couple of months, returning to the side for the clash last night, but operating in a slightly unnatural midfield role.
James starred throughout, producing a perfect captain’s display at the heart of the side, firing home the opener with a long-range effort for Maresca’s men.
Dewsbury-Hall-Reece-James-Chelsea
He featured for the entirety of the clash, managing a total of 97 touches and completing 82 passes at a completion rate of 95% - highlighting his impressive display on the ball.
The academy graduate also managed to win three duels, completed a tackle and won two fouls, producing a phenomenal display despite his unfamiliar role.
Reece James's stats for Chelsea against Copenhagen
Statistics
Minutes played
Touches
Passes completed
Duels won
Tackles won
Fouls won
Goals scored
Stats via SofaScore
As a result of his showing, James was handed a 7/10 match rating by the Evening Standard’s Malik Ouzia, further demonstrating how impressive he was - with Maresca simply unable to drop him after such a showing.
The manager decided to operate with the Englishman over £106.8m signing Fernandez, showcasing the trust in his captain to thrive, albeit in a position he’s rarely featured in.
Maresca can’t drop James after his impressive outing, giving him a potential selection headache at the heart of the side ahead of the Blues’ clash with Leicester City on Sunday.
Chelsea-Copenhagen-Nkunku Related
Saved by James & Enzo: Chelsea dud must not start again after 4/10 display
Chelsea claimed a 2-1 win against FC Copenhagen in the Europa Conference League tonight.