Frustration is the main thing that comes to mind when reflecting on the Chelsea’s performance as they failed to beat Qarabag and thus, drew 2-2 in Baku. For a brief moment, the Blues looked like they could do it and Estevao managed to score very early, however, they were not able to keep the pressure up. Lavia’s injury in the first five minutes made things worse for Chelsea, forcing an early line-up change as Caicedo replaced him.
Qarabag’s Comeback and Chelsea’s Struggles
Qarabag reversed the situation with two rapid-fire goals, one resulted from a defending mistake and the other was a handball on Jorrel Hato that was highly controversial. They continually exploited the gaps in Chelsea’s defense through the speed of their wingers.
Londoners also to no avail Chelsea made three changes at the break but were still powerless. However, Garnacho’s thunderbolt leveled the scoreline and the visitors regained the initiative. Chelsea took control of the game after that through Delap, Estevao, and Enzo who all had good attempts but the winner wasn’t scored.
Pressure Mounts on Maresca
With a draw, Chelsea are now under pressure to reach the round of 16 in the Champions League and finishing top eight in group is questionable. The squad has had their rhythm and defensive toughness compromised due to the injuries and head coach continuity shuffle. The major obstacle for the Maresca project is that it keeps getting inconsistent.
Author’s Opinion
Chelsea’s display was a mixture of both potential and vulnerability. The youths continue to be brilliant at times, however, the defensive confusion and injury problems of the team still exist. Maresca has to figure out the correct equilibrium and consistency if he is to have any prospects of winning the next matches.
The return to fitness of influential players such as Cole Palmer, Badiashile, and Wesley Fofana could be the decisive factor. In the meantime, Chelsea’s European adventure is in danger of slipping away even more.
