Chelsea missed out on the Capital One Cup semi-finals after Sunderland levelled in the 88th minute and then netted a winner late in extra time. Here’s how we rated the players in their 2-1 defeat at the Stadium of Light.
Mark Schwarzer: 7
The veteran keeper produced a couple of routine saves before pulling off a fine stop to deny Ki sung-Yueng, who eventually netted the winner. Schwarzer has already proved himself to be a much more capable understudy to Petr Cech than Ross Turnbull was.
Cesar Azpilicueta: 6
More accomplished going forward from right-back rather than on the opposite side and was involved in Chelsea’s goal. Had some problems defensively though before going off injured.
Gary Cahill: 7
Kept his composure when Chelsea were under pressure and his excellent challenge prevented Fabio Borini from scoring a winner in the final seconds of normal time.
David Luiz: 7
Used the ball well for the most part and stood up to the physical test at the back with a number of important challenges and clearances.
Ashley Cole: 7
Cole’s most solid defensive performance for a while. He did well on his return to the side, using his experience to frustrate Adam Johnson.
John Mikel Obi: 7
Did a credible job in midfield, closing down effectively and offering his centre-backs good cover.
Frank Lampard: 6
Off the pace in the first half. Improved in the second, forcing an own goal out of Lee Cattermole and creating a decent change for Kevin de Bruyne. Wasn’t at his best though.
Kevin de Bruyne: 6
The Belgian, criticised by boss Jose Mourinho after the League Cup game at Swindon, showed much more willingness to work off the ball in this tie. Struggled to influence the game though, one attempt on goal aside.
Willian: 7
Missed a couple of decent chances but again he was full of running, working hard to create something when possible and also running himself into the ground off the ball. Can beat a man too and has a good range of passing.
Andre Schurrle: 8
Another really good display by the in-form German. Didn’t take a good chance in the first half but was a constant problem to the Sunderland defence, and Wes Brown in particular. Always looked a threat when he cut in from the flank.
Samuel Eto’o: 5
Squandered a golden chance to make it 2-0 and give his side some breathing space. It proved to be a costly miss. Eto’o was far too static at times in a role that requires clever movement.
Michael Essien: 6
Didn’t look altogether comfortable at right-back after replacing the injured Azpilicueta in the second half despite having played there previously in his career.
Sunderland
Chelsea were on a different level at times but Sunderland hung in there and Ki and Borini turned the match in their favour. Cattermole, who was unlucky for his own goal, made big difference for them too.
Man of the match
Schurrle
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This post was last modified on 18/12/2013