1) Petr Cech’s Chelsea career is well and truly over
If there were still any lingering doubts about Cech’s future at Chelsea, there are not anymore. The veteran sat on the bench and watched Thibaut Courtois keep another clean sheet, proving that the Blues won’t be using one league and one cup goalkeeper, like some of the other big clubs.
2) Chelsea have nothing to worry about defensively
Jose Mourinho’s first demand when playing away from home in Europe is to keep a clean-sheet, and that’s exactly what his defence delivered him. Filipe Luis stepped into the back-line for Cesar Azpilicueta, and was superb. As a unit, they’re unrivalled domestically and possibly in Europe, too.
3) Nemanja Matic is one of the best defensive midfielders in world football
He’s that good. The Serbian can do everything, and has barely had a bad game since arriving from Chelsea in January 2014. He provides an immense physical presence to the centre of the park, but also passes the ball intelligently. Versus Sporting, he bagged the game’s winner, and was head and shoulders above everyone on the field. He’s one of the very first names on the team-sheet.
4) If Costa isn’t firing though, do Chelsea have a problem finding the back of the net…?
The Blues were the much better team against Sporting, but only managed a narrow victory. Costa failed to find the back of the net, for one of the first times this season, and it seemed as though Chelsea lacked a cutting instinct as a result. This happened a lot last season, so the importance of Costa staying fit (and on form) in 2014/15 is vital to Chelsea’s chances.
5) Never try and block Diego Costa
Sporting Lisbon defender Mauricio must be feeling pretty sore this morning… The 26-year-old (rather foolishly) tried to block the path of an onrushing Diego Costa, and was swiftly stretchered off as a result! Costa has the power of a bull, and the tenacity of one too. Defenders would be wise to not try and physically intimidate the brutish forward!
