Dinamo Zagreb 1-0 Chelsea: Player ratings from UCL loss

Reece James
The academy graduate was a constant outlet for Chelsea in the opening period but wasn’t able to have his usual influence in the final third as the Blues struggled to find a way through the Dinamo backline. James was moved to the right of the back three after the break, pulling across the pitch as he attempted to – unsuccessfully – close off space that emerged.

The England international was moved further forward after the break and was perhaps a tad fortunate not to be punished for an elbow that caught a Dinamo player. It was lightly thrown out of frustration by Mount, who has struggled for form so far this term. Did have a late opportunity, the Blues’ best chance, that was eventually saved. 4

Mateo Kovacic
On his return to Dinamo, the club with which he began his career, Kovacic would have wanted to produce a standout performance. And in a disappointing first half for Chelsea, the Croatian international was arguably the only Blues outfield player to perform at their true level as he moved the ball smartly and reclaimed it in midfield.

After the break, Kovacic thought he had played the pass that unlocked the Dinamo backline as Ben Chilwell squared for Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang. Unfortunately, the flag was raised and the 28-year-old was replaced soon after. 5