Chelsea player ratings
Emiliano Martinez – 8: The new signing was thrown straight in, claiming two early crosses and making saves from Malick Yalcouye and Charalampos Kostoulas. However, the former beat him with a well-struck volley. He was tested again as Brighton pushed for an equaliser in the second half.
Wesley Fofana – 7: Drove forward well in possession and helped pull Brighton players out of position during the build-up.
Maxence Lacroix – 6: The new signing from Crystal Palace was confident in possession but not always convincing in a defensive display that was occasionally ragged.
Levi Colwill – 6: Also looked comfortable on the ball but was caught out of position at times in new manager Xabi Alonso’s system.
Pedro Neto – 7: Tapped in Chelsea’s second goal and put a chance on a plate for Joao Pedro. However, he was most at fault for over-committing to a challenge in the build-up to Brighton’s first goal.
Malo Gusto – 6: Played out of position in midfield. It was a quiet performance, but he delivered some good corners.
Romeo Lavia – 7: After threatening to score from a similar situation in midweek, Lavia tapped in his first Chelsea goal after four minutes.
Jorrel Hato – 7: The Dutchman provided a wonderful assist on the counter-attack while playing at wing-back.
Cole Palmer – 8: Scored with a wonderful curling effort in the 75th minute. He pressed well but also missed a good chance early in the second half.
Joao Pedro – 8: The Brazilian produced a clever flick for Chelsea’s opening goal, showcased some excellent touches and made amends for missing a good chance by scoring the Blues’ third.
Morgan Rogers – 7: His powerful running down the flank set up Neto for Chelsea’s second goal. He should have had another assist, but Palmer blazed his effort over the bar.
Chelsea substitutes
Josh Acheampong – 6: Came on for Wesley Fofana in the 68th minute and helped steady Chelsea defensively.
Reece James – 7: Replaced Pedro Neto in the 68th minute, contributing at both ends of the pitch and providing added energy down the flank.
Moises Caicedo – 6: Came on for Romeo Lavia in the 68th minute, but his afternoon was cut short after just 11 minutes as he left the pitch in tears.
Pep Chavarria – 6: Replaced Levi Colwill in the 72nd minute and made an energetic cameo, looking eager to get forward.
Valentin Barco – 6: Came on for Moises Caicedo in the 82nd minute.
Subs not used: Penders, Gittens, Estevao Willian, Welbeck.
Source: www.bbc.co.uk
