Chelsea hosted Nordsjaelland last night in the final group game of the Champions League. The Blues made a record for being the first ever defending champions to have been knocked out from the group stages of the tournament.
Despite managing a very impressive victory, Chelsea were dumped out of the tournament, and will now have to settle for the Europa League.
The game was a goal fest, with end-to-end football and lots of talking points and drama. Chelsea were the better side, but the visitors also played good football at points. Nordsjaelland were awarded a penalty in the first half, but failed to convert. Then
Chelsea were awarded a penalty within a matter of minutes, and they also failed to score.
The hosts were given another penalty, which http://www.senore.com/Football-soccer/David-Luiz-c10542 slotted home, opening the goal rout. The goal was followed by a strike by Torres, and both teams came out in the second half with more energy and tenacity.
However, it was Chelsea that scored 4 more goals, while the visitors got a consolation, and perhaps deserved one for their positive approach to the game.
http://www.senore.com/Football-soccer/Petr-Cech-c29837 – 8
The keeper made decent saves whenever required and did well to deny the visitors the first goal by saving the penalty from Stokholm in the first half. He could do little about John’s toe-poked effort in the second half.
http://www.senore.com/Football-soccer/Branislav-Ivanovic-c7994 – 8
The right-back put in a more assure performance, and defended and attacked in spectacular fashion, using his physicality to its full effect.
http://www.senore.com/Football-soccer/Ashley-Cole-c6809 – 8
The left-back ventured forward with purpose and intent and was strong in all areas of the pitch. He was hardly tested in defence, and had solid game overall.
David Luiz – 8
The Brazilian had a good game, and had little to deal with all night. He took the penalty superbly, giving his side a deserved lead in the first half. The defender spent more time in the opposition half, and made the most of the freedom to venture forward.
http://www.senore.com/Football-soccer/Gary-Cahill-c14439 – 8
The former Bolton man was at fault for the goal conceded, but otherwise had a solid game alongside Luiz. He got on the score sheet with a superb header in the second half to make up for his mistake.
http://www.senore.com/Football-soccer/Oriol-c28659 Romeu – 8
The midfielder had a decent game, and was efficient if not spectacular. He did just enough to help Chelsea control the game, and provided adequate cover for Mikel in midfield.
http://www.senore.com/Football-soccer/Ramires-c30523 – 8
The Brazilian does not get more chances to venture forward under Rafael Benitez, but still managed to have a disciplined game and helped his side keep the ball.
http://www.senore.com/Football-soccer/Victor-Moses-c36075 – 9
The winger had another impressive game for the Blues, and continues to be their best option on the right flank. He combined superbly with Hazard and Torres, and provided good support for Mata in the centre.
http://www.senore.com/Football-soccer/Eden-Hazard-c11863 – 9
The Belgian had an outstanding game and displayed why http://www.senore.com/Football-soccer/Chelsea-c38786 paid so much money for him in the summer transfer window. The player displayed his neat first touch, link up play and dribbling skills, and was only overshadowed by Torres’ strong performance.
http://www.senore.com/Football-soccer/Fernando-Torres-c13707 – 9
Torres was the man of the match for Chelsea, and looked like his former self as he bagged a brace. He worked hard and got into excellent positions. It’ll be interesting to see how he fares in the Premier League against more decent opposition.
Juan Mata – 9
The Spaniard made a return to the team, and put up a class performance at the heart of Chelsea’s midfield. His passing was superb and his link-up play was excellent.
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