Chelsea’s Champions League campaign got off to a terrible start, with Basel coming from behind to beat them at Stamford Bridge. Here’s how we rated the players in their 2-1 defeat.
Petr Cech: 6
Was left exposed for the second goal and had no chance with Basel’s opener. Apart from that he had practically nothing to do. Distribution was good.
Branislav Ivanovic: 7
Impressive. Defended without fuss or concern and was regularly involved in the attack too.
David Luiz: 6
A typically purposeful run created space for Oscar’s goal and he was composed and confident in possession throughout. But has to shoulder some of the blame for the winning goal.
Gary Cahill: 6
Made a couple of fine blocks and defended with confidence. But like Luiz, will feel his display was marred by the set-piece winner.
Ashley Cole: 6
Had his work cut out dealing with the excellent Mohamed Salah and needed to pick and choose when to attack. Caught out a couple of times when Chelsea squandered possession and was unable to prevent the equaliser.
Marco Van Ginkel: 5
Made a few late challenges and seemed a little bit off the pace. Very tidy and careful in possession, but did not make his mark on the game as Ramires often does.
Frank Lampard: 7
Steady but not as influential as he normally is. Did stacks of work in the first half and played a key role in the goal. Quietly efficient without affecting the game as he can.
Willian: 7
Has bags of talent and pace as well as quick feet and numerous tricks – and showed it on his debut. Is clearly going to be a huge asset if his obvious ability is harnessed within the team and the balance is right. Oscar, Hazard, Willian, Mata? It’s tough to leave any out.
Oscar: 9
Chelsea’s best player by a distance. Popped up in defence where he was often available to take the ball from Cahill and Luiz, won numerous tackles and was also the most consistent attacking threat. Scored a fine goal and hit the bar with a splendid curling effort.
Eden Hazard: 7
Flitted in and out of the game, mainly because he was usually double marked. Blazed one good chance over, but always looked capable of unlocking the defence.
Samuel Eto’o: 5
Poor by his own exceptional standards. His first touch was often missing but to his ultimate credit, he never hid. Always wanted to be involved and got better as the game wore on. Understandable that he is lacking sharpness, but will surely play himself into form.
Juan Mata: 6
Desperate to get his chance, and take it. But couldn’t find any space in a frantic final 20 minutes.
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This post was last modified on 19/09/2013