Moises Caicedo proved decisive as Chelsea edged past Pafos with a slender 1-0 victory on Wednesday evening.
Chelsea thought they had taken an early lead through Enzo Fernandez’s header, but the goal was ruled out after the Argentine was penalised for a foul on Ken Sema in the build-up.
Pafos went close in the first half when Jaja’s effort deflected off Reece James and struck the post. Chelsea dominated after the break, yet Pafos goalkeeper Jay Gorter produced a series of fine saves before finally being beaten by Caicedo’s headed winner with 12 minutes left.
Below are Bobby Vincent’s player ratings out of 10:
Filip Jorgensen (6)
Deputised for Robert Sanchez and was largely untested in the first half. Remained calm when dealing with a tricky back-pass from Malo Gusto, cushioning the ball with his chest. Suffered an injury and was taken off at the interval.
Malo Gusto (6)
Returned after missing three matches and made an important sliding challenge to stop a dangerous counterattack. A steady performance overall.
Wesley Fofana (7)
Made his second straight start. Looked uneasy early on under pressure in his own area but grew into the game and played a role in Caicedo’s decisive goal.
Benoit Badiashile (6)
Came in for Trevoh Chalobah and showed authority, stepping into midfield several times to win possession. Almost set up a spectacular goal for Estevao Willian, but the effort was blocked.
Jorrel Hato (6)
Rewarded with a start after impressive substitute appearances. Missed a decent chance just before halftime but was solid on the left side of the defence.
Reece James (6)
Back after a short spell out. Passed the ball neatly and looked composed before being substituted at halftime.
Moises Caicedo (8)
Typically energetic off the ball, especially early on as he tried to inject tempo. Not quite at his absolute best in recent weeks, but this was a big step in the right direction, capped by the winning goal.
Pedro Neto (5)
At times tried too hard to make something happen. Another frustrating outing for the winger, who is still searching for form.
Enzo Fernandez (7)
Played higher up the pitch in a number 10 role. Created a great chance for Reece James early on and was unlucky to see his headed goal disallowed. One of Chelsea’s better performers.
Alejandro Garnacho (4)
Worked hard but struggled again on the left wing. Very direct yet often predictable, though his defensive effort was notable.
Liam Delap (4)
Led the line for Chelsea. Barely involved in the first half and, while he showed some hold-up play later, he found it difficult to influence the game.
Substitutes:
James
Introduced at halftime for James as Chelsea searched for inspiration. Almost made an immediate impact with a volley that was saved and looked dangerous throughout the second half.
Robert Sanchez (6)
Replaced Jorgensen at the break. Largely untroubled but made a crucial punch to clear a dangerous cross late on.
Jamie Gittens (6)
Came on for the final 20 minutes. Picked up an early booking but showed some tidy footwork and dribbling.
Joao Pedro (6)
Brought on late by Liam Rosenior. Had limited impact but showed good work rate and commitment.
