How have Chelsea players fared in the World Cup so far?

Cesar Azpilicueta (Right back) Spain

The Chelsea captain played a significant role for Spain in their 7-0 win over Costa Rica. It is worth noting that Costa Rica was unimaginably poor, but Spain was also outrageously good. Their ball retention was excellent, completing 93% of their passes as a team. Azpilicueta was as good as anyone else, completing 95% of his passes and making 90 passes in total. He created three chances, with no one creating more. He was part of a well-oiled Spain machine.

Kalidou Koulibaly (Centerback) Senegal

Koulibaly had a very good performance. Senegal was good for a clean sheet on the day, but Mendy’s error meant Koulibaly would have to wait a little longer for a clean sheet. Koulibaly made eight clearances, making 11 defensive actions in all. He also made six passes into the final third and completed 7/13 long balls.

Thiago Silva (Centerback) Brazil

Silva was good, despite being much older than most of the other players on the pitch. Brazil very much controlled proceedings against Serbia, so much so that Silva only made two defensive actions all game. His passing was good, and he did a very good job of commanding the back line.

Mateo Kovacic (Central midfielder) Croatia

Kovacic was solid against Morocco, where he came up against his club teammate Hakim Ziyech. He played a key role in helping Croatia maintain possession and control the midfield, preventing Morocco’s forwards from getting any time on the ball.