Chelsea continued their winning streak, defeating Ajax 5-1 at Stamford Bridge in the Champions League for their fourth consecutive win. The visitors got off to a decent start but their challenge was seriously hampered when Kenneth Taylor received a red card for a foul on Facundo Buonanotte. The ensuing free kick was scored by Marc Giu to give Chelsea the lead.
The hosts soon doubled their lead when Moises Caicedo scored his fourth goal of the season, helped by a big deflection. Ajax managed to get a goal back moments later with Wout Weghorst converting a penalty. However, Enzo Fernandes restored Chelsea’s two-goal lead from the penalty spot before half-time, before Estebao Willian converted his own spot-kick to make it 4-1. The second half was quiet, but there was still time for Tyrik George to get his name on the scoresheet. Express Sport rates and predicts the Blues after the win…
Chelsea vs Ajax player ratings
Philip Jorgensen – 6
This is his second starting appearance this season. He guessed the penalty correctly, but may be disappointed that he couldn’t prevent it.
Moises Caicedo – 8
He is assigned covering duties at right back. When Chelsea had the ball, Caicedo moved to the center of the pitch. Although it was a missed shot, he scored his second goal of the game with a solid shot.
Wesley Fofana – 6
It was his fourth start of the season and also his Champions League debut. He scored an accurate header at the Spaniard and provided the assist for Giu’s goal.
Toshin Adarabioyo – 5
He returned to the starting lineup and made an important block around the 6th or 7th minute. However, Toshin conceded an unnecessary penalty in the first half, which pulled Ajax back into the game.
Jorel Hato – 6
The Dutch player made his first European appearance with his new employer against his former employer. Hato, who plays at left-back, looked comfortable in possession of the ball.
Romeo Lavia – 6
It marked the start of the second consecutive year. He performed well in midfield, keeping the play moving well and winning the ball over and over again.
Enzo Fernandes – 8
Great to see him back from a minor knee issue. He converted the best penalty in the first half and had a chance to double his tally with a spot-kick, but in true captain fashion he handed the ball to young Estevao, who scored his first goal in the Champions League.
Estevao Willian – 9
It was the Brazilian’s first start in the Champions League. It took me a while to find my footing, but eventually I shined on the bridge. I was really happy that I got my third penalty of the match and converted the spot kick myself.
Facundo Buonanotte – 7
It was his second consecutive start in Europe. It looked lively. He is good at finding space in crowded areas and is always keen to win the ball.
Jamie Gittens – 7
It was the Blues’ first start in Europe. It looked lively. Always eager to beat his man, and when he does that, people walk out of their seats. In the 37th minute, he delivered a very dangerous cross towards Buonanotte. A direct run and a provocative cross to match – that pretty much summed up his performance.
Marc Giu – 9
Giu started a match for the first time in over 10 months and certainly justified Maresca’s faith with an early goal. Despite its simplicity, his finish required calm and composure from close range. His overall performance was excellent, linking together attacking plays effectively and proving to be a real nuisance when not in possession of the ball.
substitute
Trevor Chalovar (Tosin 46) – 6
Charova came on at half-time and wore the captain’s armband. He was a good passer, but he wasn’t very good at defense.
Andrei Santos (Fernandez 46) – 7
Santos played a key role in George’s goal, setting the stage for a strong performance in which George scored the Blues’ fifth goal.
Tilik George (Giu 46) – 7
Was that his first touch? That’s entirely possible. A great way to announce his arrival.
Josh Achiampong (Caicedo 48) – 7
Acheampong replaced Caicedo as a right-back and performed well. As always, he was calm and collected.
Reggie Walsh (Lavia 65) – 7
It’s a great moment for a 17-year-old. Just two days after his 17th birthday, Walsh made his Champions League debut. He was very good in possession – it’s clear why Maresca rates him so highly.
