After a 2-2 stalemate against Qarabag, Chelsea skipper Reece James sent a clear message to the rest of his team. The Blues have been guilty of the same mistake over and over again, that is, not to take full advantage of their bright start, thus they had to be content with just one point in Baku and are now ranked 12th in the group table.
Defensive Lapses Cost Chelsea Again
James voiced frustration over the team’s repeated defensive mistakes, which gifted Qarabag both goals. Estevao Willian opened the scoring early, but errors from Jorrel Hato and the backline turned control into chaos.
Qarabag equalised through Leandro Andrade before Marko Jankovic converted a penalty. Reece James admitted that the goals resulted from “simple errors” rather than any brilliance from the opposition. He emphasised that such lapses “must be cut out” if Chelsea hope to progress.
Maresca and James Demand Accountability
Head coach Enzo Maresca also supported the captain’s view of the situation, referring to the goals as “avoidable” and highlighting Chelsea’s deficiency of clinical finishing in the offensive part. The losing streak of the team that even after Alejandro Garncho’s equalizer in the second half could not turn their dominance into a win, has gone on again.
James praised Estevao’s impressive performance but stressed the urgent need for the team to stay consistent, composed, and mature. Both he and Maresca firmly insisted Chelsea must “look in the mirror,” take full responsibility for their recurring problems, and show greater accountability in crucial moments to avoid repeating the same costly mistakes.
Author’s Opinion
Chelsea’s draw highlighted a troubling pattern under Enzo Maresca — control without conviction and finishing without precision. The squad’s talent is undeniable, yet individual errors persist. Unless focus and discipline improve, Chelsea’s European hopes may fade before they truly begin.
As featured on Chelseanews.com
