Chelsea 5 - 1 Ajax. The Blues Run Riot to Secure All 3 Points on a Near-Perfect Night at the Bridge
“Are you Tottenham in disguise?” – the chant from a delighted Shed End, who watched on during what quickly became a night to remember at Stamford Bridge. Enzo Maresca’s heavily rotated Chelsea side - fresh off a 3-0 win over Nottingham Forest - cruised past a disjointed Ajax team that looks a long way off their former status as European heavyweights.
The tone was set early. A reckless challenge from Kenneth Taylor in the 17th minute earned him a straight red, and what was already a daunting task at the home of the world champions suddenly became near-impossible for the visitors. From the resulting free kick, Marc Guiu capitalised, slotting home from close range to give Chelsea the lead. The young striker will be happy to grab a goal and will be eyeing a continued run in the side with Liam Delap still sidelined.
Moments later, Moisés Caicedo picked up the ball 25 yards from goal. “Shooooot!” urged the crowd. You know the rest. A slight deflection didn’t take away from the strike. Trademark Caicedo. 2-0 Chelsea.
The low moment of the game from a Chelsea perspective came from Tosin Adarabioyo, whose clumsy challenge handed Ajax a lifeline from the spot. Wout Weghorst made no mistake. The elder statesman in this Chelsea squad did not lead by example tonight and looked slightly lethargic on the ball. He will want to improve on that, as Enzo Maresca could well require him to deal with the long throw and aerial threat of Sunderland on Saturday. Personally, I would steer clear of Tosin given the performance and opt for a combination of Chalobah and Acheampong.
The Blues weren’t finished. The South American duo — Enzo Fernández and starboy Estêvão — both stepped up and converted with composure from the spot after two more reckless Ajax challenges, wrapping up a ruthless first-half performance that saw Chelsea head into the break 4-1 up.Estêvão’s goal capped off an exemplary display from the young Brazilian, who continues to show why he’s destined for stardom. Every time he gets on the ball, there’s a buzz — a sense that something special might happen. His performance tonight was packed with trademark Brazilian flair, quick feet, and fearless creativity. While the talent is still raw, there is plenty to be excited about.
Tyrique George picked up where the Blues left off, coming on as a second-half substitute and adding a fifth in the 48th minute.
From that point, the result was set in stone. The Gaffa used the remaining time as a chance to both rest his key players and give opportunities to the youth — hence the removal of Caicedo, Enzo, and Lavia, and the introduction of Santos and newly-turned 17-year-old Reggie Walsh. Champions League football at 17 – not too bad, eh. One to keep an eye on.
A dominant, confident, and clinical display under the lights at the Bridge. Chelsea will look to extend their winning run as they welcome Sunderland on Saturday.
