Bright wins it for Chelsea: lessons learned in first UCL match

Erin Cuthbert’s work rate is truly remarkable

At this point, there are not enough descriptors to describe what Cuthbert does for this Chelsea team. Whether it was getting back in defense, starting a counter, or whipping in a corner kick, Cuthbert was all over the pitch in Paris. She was one of the main reasons for the lack of continuity between the midfield and attack for PSG, constantly working to win the ball back and ignite players like Pernille Harder, and Guro Reiten going forward.

Her heat map after the game tells the entire story. Not only did she collect what would end up being the match-winning assist, the Scottish international created the most chances on the team, won the most tackles, and had 11 duels won which was the best mark by any Blue at the Stade Jean-Bouin. She is one of four players to have played in every minute of the WSL this season so far, along with Chelsea’s two stable centerbacks. It is a shame that Cuthbert will not be participating in the World Cup over the summer, but that may give her even more motivation to give it her all for the Blues throughout the season.