Chelsea FC player ratings vs Atletico Madrid: Kurt Zouma and Antonio Rudiger star as Blues make statement

Outstanding: Kurt Zouma kept Luis Suarez quiet
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Chelsea announced themselves as serious contenders for the Champions League with a statement 2-0 win over Atletico Madrid to progress to the quarter-finals 3-0 on aggregate.

Here’s how James Robson rated the Blues at Stamford Bridge…

Edouard Mendy 6

Hardly had anything to do – but without the fans in the crowd you can hear just how well he communicates with those in front of him. 

Cesar Azpilicueta 7

Had a grab at Suarez in the box and was fortunate not to concede a penalty. Other than he was in total control.

Kurt Zouma 8

Crucial tackle on Suarez early on stopped a dangerous break. Never troubled in the air. Outstanding.

Antonio Rudiger 8

Was up for the physical challenge of Suarez from the start. And when he sent the striker tumbling early on, it was a pointer to how he would boss proceedings.

Reece James 7

A real threat down the right as he pushed high and constantly stretched the Atletico defence with his runs in behind.

N’Golo Kante 8

High-energy performance. One minute winning the ball in the midfield, then picking up the pieces on the edge of the box to keep the pressure on Atletico. Brilliant.

Mateo Kovacic 7

Heavily involved as Chelsea controlled midfield, constantly looking for gaps to hurt Atletico with his passing.

Marcos Alonso 7

A performance full of attacking intent. His runs inside caused Atletico a lot of problems.

Hakim Ziyech 7

A reminder of the form he showed earlier in the season and a goal that put Chelsea in total control and on their way to the quarters.

Kai Havertz 7

Deployed in a wider role than in recent weeks and he linked well with Werner and Ziyech in a fluid attack. Clever movement and use of the ball.

Timo Werner 7

Provided Ziyech with the cross for Chelsea’s opener. His seventh assist of the season. It’s not all about goals.

Substitutions

Christian Pulisic (Ziyech, 77’) 5

Another forward full of running and movement to worry Atletico.

Callum Hudson-Odoi (Werner, 83’) 5

Had a shot at goal as soon as he came on. Exploited tired legs.

Emerson (Havertz, 90 N/A

Scored with his very first touch. At this rate he may get a start up front.

Ben Chilwell (Alonso, 90) N/A

Brought on in the final moments of stoppage time.

Subs not used: Kepa, Caballero, Gilmour, Anjorin, Giroud.

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