Chelsea signed off for the international break with a thrilling 2-1 win against Liverpool this weekend.
The Blues picked up three points in the Premier League courtesy of a late victory at Stamford Bridge. Moises Caicedo put the hosts in front in the first half with a stunning goal, but the visitors equalised in the second period via Cody Gakpo.
However, substitute Estevao Willian scored a stoppage time winner in dramatic fashion.
Enzo Maresca’s side avoided three consecutive league defeats with a much-improved performance against Liverpool, where they had yet more injury problems. Unfortunately, Benoit Badiashile and Josh Acheampong both came off the pitch with suspected issues.
The Chelsea player ratings against Liverpool reflected several impressive individual displays.
Ian Wright and Glenn Hoddle stunned by Moises Caicedo goal
Ian Wright hailed Chelsea midfielder Caicedo, 23, for the quality of his goal to break the deadlock. He netted his third Premier League goal of the season with a rocket into the top corner from the edge of the box.
Wright said via the Premier League’s official website (6:27pm, 4 October): “He’s almost invited to have a shot. Once he gets into the situation, you’re thinking someone has to come to him, [Virgil] Van Dijk has dropped off a bit. He’s able to stop, really set himself, and that’s when you see the quality of the strike.”
Meanwhile, Glenn Hoddle was equally stunned by the “sensational” strike from distance by Caicedo for Chelsea’s goal.
Hoddle said via the Premier League’s official website (6:25pm, 4 October): “Absolutely sensational from Caicedo. That first touch is excellent, takes [Alexis] Mac Allister out of the game, he goes to hit it, sees there’s no Liverpool player coming towards him, and what a strike to keep it in that top corner. Wonderful goal.”
Moises Caicedo imperious against Liverpool
Gianfranco Zola claims Caicedo’s finishing has improved, something he proved yet again this weekend.
On top of his goal, the Ecuador international really impressed in the centre of the park against Liverpool. It is the type of all-action display that supporters have become used to seeing, but it is worth remembering that he’s playing consistently at such a high level.
| Minutes played | Goals | Total shots | Accurate passes | Touches | Tackles won | Recoveries | Match rating |
| 90 | 1 | 2 | 44/50 (88%) | 64 | 4 | 5 | 8.1 |
The Liverpool midfield is renowned as one of the strongest in Europe right now, especially after their achievements last season. They couldn’t deal with the athleticism of Caicedo on Saturday, though.
Even though Caicedo has had some small injury issues, he’s continued to play and shine. Hopefully, he can be allowed some time to rest and recover during the international window.
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