Negatives
1. Sloppy Performance After a Strong Start
Chelsea dominated the opening 30 minutes, appearing ready to run away with the game. However, a costly error from Robert Sanchez gave Leicester their first meaningful attack and changed the match's momentum. Leicester gained confidence and began challenging Chelsea’s control. It wouldn’t have been surprising if Leicester had snatched a draw.
2. Another Poor Display From Robert Sanchez
Robert Sanchez's unforced errors continued to plague Chelsea. He cheaply gave the ball away, leading to Leicester’s first threatening move. Earlier in the match, he sent the ball out for a Leicester goal kick despite having ample time and space. Sanchez also played risky passes to teammates, putting them under unnecessary pressure.
Adding to the frustration, Sanchez was booked for time-wasting before the 70th minute—a telling sign of his lack of composure. Many fans are puzzled by Enzo Maresca’s unwavering trust in Sanchez, who has yet to demonstrate he’s capable of being Chelsea’s No. 1 goalkeeper.
3. Time Running Out for Noni Madueke
Pedro Neto's injury meant Noni Madueke retained his spot in the starting XI, but he failed to make an impact. Madueke missed an open-net chance when Jackson set him up with a cross, though the ball was not ideally placed. Additionally, he inadvertently blocked Cole Palmer’s shot into an empty net by failing to adjust his positioning.
With Felix impressing and Neto potentially returning soon, Madueke’s place in the starting XI is increasingly in jeopardy. Like Sanchez, it feels like Maresca’s preference is the only thing keeping him in the lineup.
4. Refereeing Failures Risked Player Safety
The officiating left much to be desired, with two dangerous challenges from Leicester players going unpunished. Wilfred Ndidi stamped on Cole Palmer’s Achilles with no ball in sight, yet VAR decided it wasn’t a red card. It was yet another instance of a dangerous challenge on Palmer being deemed not worthy enough of a red card by VAR. Similarly, Boubakary Soumare’s high-footed tackle on Joao Felix could have caused a serious injury had Felix not jumped out of the way.
These incidents, along with several other reckless challenges from Leicester, made it clear the referee failed to protect Chelsea’s players. The Blues were fortunate to avoid serious injuries.