Palmer 9, Gusto 3: rating Chelsea players in Conference League final win

In a thrilling Conference League final, Chelsea staged a remarkable comeback to overturn a 1-0 deficit and clinch the victory, leaving fans and pundits alike with plenty to discuss. The game, which was decided by a blend of youthful exuberance and tactical shifts, saw some players shine while others fell short of the mark.

Cole Palmer emerged as the standout performer with a remarkable rating of 9. Despite a subdued first half, Palmer transformed the match following the break. His burst of energy and vision on the pitch was evident as he orchestrated two incisive assists that proved pivotal in swinging the game back in Chelsea’s favor.

The quality of Palmer’s passes and his intelligent positioning enabled the Blues to dismantle their opponents’ defense. His contributions not only ignited Chelsea’s comeback but also set the tone for the remainder of the match, turning a seemingly lost cause into a memorable win.

Jadon Sancho also made a significant impact, earning a solid rating of 7.5. Coming off the bench, Sancho’s arrival injected much-needed pace and creativity into the game. His decisive goal, which sealed the victory, was a testament to his ability to influence high-pressure fixtures.

Sancho’s performance was complemented by his emotional celebration, a moment that resonated with the fans and underscored the passion and commitment he brings to every match. His late intervention was crucial in lifting the team’s spirits and finalizing the comeback.

Moisés Caicedo, rated 7.5 as well, continued to prove why he is regarded as Chelsea’s midfield dynamo. His dynamic play and tireless energy across the pitch were on full display, as he not only controlled the midfield but also found himself in the right place at the right time to score the Blues’ fourth goal.

Caicedo’s goal was delivered with flair and precision, adding a stylish feather to his cap and reinforcing his vital role within the team. His ability to both create and finish chances made him indispensable in a game that was defined by its momentum shifts.

Enzo Fernández contributed significantly with a rating of 7. His clever header to start the comeback set the stage for what was to come. By linking up effectively with his teammates, Enzo provided the crucial assist for Caicedo’s goal, showcasing his aptitude for making decisive plays in critical moments.

On the right side of the pitch, Pedro Neto’s performance, unfortunately, did not live up to expectations, as reflected in his low rating of 4. Struggling to cope with defensive pressures, Neto’s difficulties on the flank were apparent throughout the first 60 minutes of the game, eventually leading to his substitution.

Malo Gusto, meanwhile, encountered even harsher criticism with a rating of just 3. His careless pass proved to be costly, gifting Real Betis an opening goal and causing further defensive disarray. Recognizing the mounting issues, the coaching staff decided to bench him at half-time to contain further damage.

Other players contributed in varying measures to the overall team performance. Jorgensen managed a rating of 6.5, bringing a level of consistency that helped stabilize the midfield during crucial phases of the match. His efforts, though not as headline-grabbing, were integral to the team’s comeback story.

Chalobah and Badiashile were both assigned ratings of 5.5. Their performances were more mixed, reflecting the ups and downs that can occur in a high-stakes final. These ratings highlighted areas where further consistency would be key for future engagements.

Cucurella was rated a 6, showing a decent return on his involvement in the match despite not being among the standout names. His work rate and defensive contributions provided a necessary balance to Chelsea’s attacking exuberance.

Madueke’s efforts, although spirited, earned him a rating of 5. His involvement in the match was marked by enthusiasm, but the final rating suggests that there is still room for improvement in his overall performance.

Both Nicolas Jackson and Reece James received favorable ratings of 6.5 each. Their contributions were significant in maintaining the team’s solidity and in offering timely interventions when required. Colwill, too, secured a rating of 6, rounding out the defensive performances.

It’s important to note that some players, such as Dewsbury-Hall and Guiu, were not assigned ratings for this particular match. Their roles, while less scrutinized in this analysis, remain an essential part of the squad dynamics.

Overall, the detailed individual ratings capture both the brilliance and the shortcomings of Chelsea’s display. The narrative of the match is one of resiliency, marked by explosive contributions from the bench and the inspiring resurgence led by key players like Palmer and Sancho.

This victory in the Conference League final is a testament to Chelsea’s ability to overcome early setbacks and showcase the depth of talent within the squad. The blend of emerging stars and seasoned players promises an exciting future for the Blues, as they continue to build on the momentum of this impressive win.