Jadon Sancho’s best performance. Chelsea player ratings vs Crystal Palace by Dailysports

Chelsea’s recent performances have been underwhelming, while Crystal Palace continues to pleasantly surprise.

Chelsea struggles against low-block teams, but Palace decided to go aggressive, pressing the Blues instead of sitting deep. This approach paid off, resulting in a 1-1 draw at Stamford Bridge.

Chelsea showed significant improvement compared to previous matches. From a spectator’s perspective, it was an engaging game: Palace had 13 shots, while Chelsea managed 15.

For Chelsea, the situation becomes more challenging. With Liverpool in top form, the title race seems out of reach. However, securing a Champions League spot remains crucial. Falling further behind Arsenal and Nottingham Forest while Newcastle and Manchester City close in isn’t an option.

Top players

Jadon Sancho
When Chelsea signed Sancho, many hoped he could rejuvenate his career. Unfortunately, he has yet to reach his previous heights with the Blues.

But today was his moment. A solid performance throughout, capped by creating a goal out of nothing. He beautifully flicked the ball past his marker, drawing three Palace defenders before delivering a precise pass to Palmer, who merely had to finish. Sancho was the true architect of that goal.

Robert Sánchez
Palace’s aggressive approach kept Chelsea under pressure, but Sánchez’s heroics prevented the scoreline from worsening. The Spaniard made five critical saves, some of which were anything but straightforward.

• Also read: FA charges Chelsea: what’s the issue?

Malo Gusto
Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has moved away from using inverted fullbacks, given the midfield depth with players like Fernández, Caicedo, and Lavia. Instead, Gusto was pushed higher up the flank, often operating in wide or half-space areas. His positioning became even more noticeable in the second half, as much of Chelsea’s play flowed through his side. Gusto was the most involved player on the pitch, registering 99 touches and completing 77 passes.

Chelsea player ratings vs Crystal Palace

• Achampong J. – 6
• Gusto M. – 7
• Jackson N. – 7
• Caicedo M. – 6
• Colwill L. – 7
• Cucurella M. – 6
• Madueke N. – 6
• Neto P. – 7
• Palmer C. – 7
• Sánchez R. – 8
• Sancho J. – 8
• Fernández E. – 7