Chelsea’s emphatic 3-0 win against West Ham United at the London Stadium marked a significant milestone for both the club and their new manager, Enzo Maresca. The victory not only ended a three-game winless run at the Hammers’ home ground but also saw Maresca become the first manager since Pep Guardiola to win his first three away Premier League fixtures. Chelsea’s dominance was on full display as they cruised past their London rivals, signaling a resurgence under Maresca’s leadership.
Nicolas Jackson silences doubters with a stellar performance
Nicolas Jackson responded to critics in the best way possible with a match-winning display at the London Stadium. Amid speculation that Christopher Nkunku might replace him as Chelsea’s leading striker, the Senegalese forward played a pivotal role in all three of Chelsea’s goals. His brace, combined with an assist for Cole Palmer, demonstrated the full range of his abilities, from intelligent link-up play to clinical finishing. Jackson’s first goal was a testament to his sharp instincts, as he took a quick free-kick, sprinted into space, and finished brilliantly after receiving a pass from Jadon Sancho. His movement, timing, and decisiveness earned him the Man of the Match accolade.
Nicolas Jackson (18) has now scored more non-penalty goals in the Premier League since the start of last season than Dominic Solanke, Alexander Isak & Son Heung-min, Mohamed Salah and Kai Havertz.
Is he one of the most underrated forwards? 🤔 pic.twitter.com/OFvznBeT4w
— Squawka (@Squawka) September 21, 2024
With his assist for Palmer’s goal, the duo has now formed the Premier League’s most prolific partnership since the start of the 2023/24 season as they have combined for 10 goals, underlining Jackson’s growing importance to the team.
Moises Caicedo: Midfield general in command
Moises Caicedo delivered a commanding performance in the heart of Chelsea’s midfield, showcasing why the club splashed out €100 million for his services. Caicedo controlled the game with his ball-winning ability, vision, and relentless energy. Not only did he break up West Ham’s attacks with crucial tackles and interceptions, but his pinpoint assist for Jackson’s second goal highlighted his offensive contributions as well.
The Ecuadorian’s defensive numbers were staggering:
- 1 assist
- 47/53 accurate passes (89%)
- 1 big chance created
- 74 touches
- 7 passes into the final third
- 4/8 tackles won (50%)
- 2 blocks
- 2 clearances
- 4 recoveries
- 10/13 ground duels won (77%)
- 100% aerial duels won (3/3)
No player in the Premier League this season has won more duels in a single game than Caicedo’s 13 against West Ham, cementing his role as CFC’s midfield enforcer.
A balanced team effort
While Cole Palmer has been Chelsea’s main creative force in previous matches, West Ham’s attempts to double-mark him allowed other players to step up. The Blues’ performance reflected a cohesive unit, with contributions coming from every part of the pitch. Robert Sanchez, after an uncertain start to the season, showed significant improvement with a solid performance between the sticks. At the back, Levi Colwill, Tosin Adarabioyo, and Wesley Fofana were resolute, neutralizing the Hammers’ attacking threat with composure.
Robert Sanchez's last two Premier League games for Chelsea:
◉ 14 saves
◉ 3.76 goals prevented
◉ 1 penalty savedAnd he's kept back-to-back clean sheets. 👏 pic.twitter.com/BCIZVr0rUt
— Squawka (@Squawka) September 21, 2024
In midfield, Enzo Fernández and Caicedo linked up well, showing signs of a burgeoning partnership that could drive the Blues forward. The forwards were dynamic, with each contributing to Chelsea’s fluid attacking play. Though Palmer grabbed a goal, CFC’s overall display showed they are becoming a balanced team where the burden of creativity and goals is shared.
With their win at the London Stadium, Chelsea will look to carry the momentum into their upcoming EFL Cup fixture against Barrow AFC. The Blues will be eager to build on this performance and extend their winning run as they aim for success on multiple fronts this season.
