Noni Madueke’s late winner from the penalty spot handed Chelsea a much needed three points with a 2-1 win over Crystal Palace at Stamford Bridge.
Here are five things we learned from the game…
Nkunku shows glimpses
Embed from Getty ImagesThe rousing reception for Christopher Nkunku when his name was read out before kick-off goes to show the excitement and anticipation for the forward among Chelsea fans. This was his first Premier League start since signing for the club in the summer after being injured in pre-season and he certainly showed that the excitement from supporters was well placed with some lovely link-up play with his fellow attackers. He brilliantly played in Malo Gusto to set up Mykhailo Mudryk for the opening goal and while he understandably faded in the game given the lack of football he has played this season, the Frenchman looks like he could be the missing link to make things click for the Blues going forward.
Gusto proves he can fill the void left by James
Embed from Getty ImagesReece James’ latest injury setback was a huge blow for Chelsea but Malo Gusto certainly eased those concerns with an excellent performance against Crystal Palace. The full-back brilliantly set up the opener, starting the move with a fantastic run from the right and continuing all the way over to the left-hand side where he picked out Mudryk in the box to finish. He also did a solid job defensively, with his acrobatic clearance in the first half preventing Jordan Ayew from having a great chance at the back post. His work ethic and athleticism is something to be admired and he had the quality to match against Palace.
A big moment for Madueke
Embed from Getty ImagesNoni Madueke has not found it easy at Chelsea this season due to injuries and limited chances in the first team but his late penalty which won his side the game will provide an enormous confidence boost to the youngster. He drew the foul from Ebere Eze to win the penalty in the first place and showed enormous confidence to step up and tuck it away, making a real impact off the bench when given his chance. He is surely knocking on the door for more opportunities in the first team.
Basic errors and lack of concentration could have cost Chelsea again
Embed from Getty ImagesChelsea were in control for much of the first-half, bar a positive start from Crystal Palace and the odd moment of danger, but went in at the break level after Michael Olise’s excellent finish. The Blues had numerous chances to get the ball out of their defensive third and further up the pitch with just a couple of minutes left until the break but instead gave the ball back to the away side which eventually led to the equaliser, with Olise afforded too much room at the back to chest the ball down and volley beyond Djordje Petrovic. Chelsea got the result they wanted but Pochettino will know it could have been a different story because of what was a very avoidable goal.
Michael Olise is Crystal Palace’s x factor
Embed from Getty ImagesCrystal Palace will feel hard done by after Chelsea were awarded a late penalty through VAR interference but can take some positives from their display. The Eagles started well but struggled to create chances in the first half before Olise’s brilliant strike levelled the score and they played well In the second half. The biggest plus for Palace has to be Olise, whose excellent chest and volley once again showed his talent for scoring goals and keeping him fit will be key if they are to enjoy a season without being dragged into a relegation battle. It is no wonder Chelsea were trying so hard to sign him in the summer.
