CHELSEA are in control of their Champions League destiny as they secured a thrilling draw in Valencia.
Frank Lampard’s side know a win against whipping boys Lille in their last game will be enough to book a place in the last-16 of the Champions League.
Christian Pulisic shone again as he continued his excellent form for ChelseaCredit: Reuters
But there were some major concerns for his side in the 2-2 draw in Spain – not least the amount of chances the side coughed up.
SunSport’s Duncan Wright gives his ratings from an amazing match in Valencia.
KEPA ARRIZABALAGA – 7/10
Developing into a dominant presence between the posts – and made a brilliant save to keep out Perajo’s penalty. But mis-judged the cross from Wass to allow the equaliser to drop in.
REECE JAMES – 7
Such a talent that he came into the side and immediately looked one of the best players on the pitch, and a real threat with his delivery going forward. But lucky to see Kepa save from Maxi Gomez after losing his man. Too cavalier late on when he needed to hold his position.
ANDREAS CHRISTENSEN – 5
Began nervously in his first start for two months, just looking to find the pace of the game. Positionally, he was exposed three times in the first half and was only punished once, then made dreadful howler to gift Rodrigo an open goal only for him fire over. Not good enough.
KURT ZOUMA – 7
Making his 11th successive start and playing with the confidence that comes with that. By far the better of the two central defenders on show, but frantic by the end as Chelsea over committed.
CESAR AZPILICUETA – 6
Always game and willing, but starting on the left he was exposed and caught out of position several times. Looked more comfortable when switched into a back three and made a fine block.
JORGINHO – 6
A leader on the training ground, and a regular trouble-maker on the pitch as he picked up another booking within the first seven minutes.
Played well, but eventually brought off to avoid getting sent off and discipline is a concern in big matches like this.
MATEO KOVACIC – 7
A different player this season to last. Tireless in his running to close Valencia down, and much more of a creative influence on the side.
His control and finish to level the scores was a vital moment.
Andreas Christensen was out of sorts and looked a major weakness in the Chelsea back lineCredit: Getty – Contributor
N’GOLO KANTE – 7
With more games is becoming more influential following an injury-plagued start to the season.
Was everywhere at times, and is looking back to his best.
CHRISTIAN PULISIC – 8
The American is on fire right now, and continued his fine goalscoring run with the crucial second for the Blues.
Produced moments of magic and was Chelsea’s most threatening player all night.
WILLIAN – 6
Wasted a great chance with a wayward header within two minutes but quickly looked eager and willing trying to probe the Valencia defence. Faded in the second half before being subbed.
TAMMY ABRAHAM – 7
Sharp and lively, unlucky not to turn a couple of Reece James crosses into goals. Looked threatening before suffering a bad-looking injury just before the break.
SUBS: MICHY BATSHUAYI – 6
Looked short of the match sharpness that comes with having so few games. His touch let him down at the vital moment to see some dangerous attacks go to waste.
EMERSON – 6
Gave balance to Chelsea out as a left wing-back but still committed himself too far up the pitch when he needed to be less adventurous.
MASON MOUNT – 6
A late sub, didn’t have any time to make a real impact on the game.
Chelsea striker Tammy Abraham in tears after nasty injury in Champions League against Valencia
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
