Olivier Giroud’s first-half header was enough as Chelsea were 1-0 winners over Liverpool at Stamford Bridge on Sunday. The Frenchman rose highest from Victor Moses’ cross to give the Blues all three points and move to within two points of the top four. Victory on Sunday means that Antonio Conte’s side put pressure on both Tottenham and Liverpool in the hunt for Champions League qualification. Here’s who impressed in Chelsea’s 1-0 win over Liverpool on Sunday:
Thibaut Courtois – 7
Made a number of good saves to deny Sadio Mane, and kept his concentration levels high late on to deny Virgil van Dijk.
Antonio Rudiger – 8
Kept Mohamed Salah quiet for the entire game, and that is no easy feat. The German was brilliant from start to finish.
Gary Cahill – 7
Continued to show why he deserves to be back in the team. Roberto Firmino struggled up against the Chelsea captain.
Cesar Azpilicueta – 7
A great performance from the entire back three, who kept the front three of Salah, Firmino, and Mane quiet.
Victor Moses – 7
Puting a fine run of form in recent weeks, and continued that with another good performance. His cross found Giroud for the game’s only goal.
N’Golo Kante – 7
Trademark performance from Kante, who thrives in these types of games. His interceptions and tackles were key for Chelsea as they often were without the ball.
Cesc Fabregas – 7
A more defensive game for the Spaniard on this occasion, but contributed well in attacking situations too.
Tiemoue Bakayoko – 8
His performances haven’t been great recently, but Bakayoko showed shines of promise as his performance was faultless.
Marcos Alonso – 7
Returned to the starting eleven after serving his suspension, and almost put the game beyond Liverpool with a sublime volley that went narrowly wide.
Eden Hazard – 9
Another brilliant performance from the Belgian. He was full of running and energy, and the Liverpool defence struggled to cope with him.
Olivier Giroud – 8
Saviour for the Blues again. His header was enough for Chelsea, and it could be vital as they hunt for Champions League football.
Substitutes
Willian – 6
Provided energy late on.
Davide Zappacosta – N/A
Pedro – N/A
