Chelsea were forced to a goalless draw by hosts Everton in a fierce 90-minute duel. Everton’s defense was solid enough to overcome the attacks of Enzo Maresca’s troops which seemed less effective.
Sunday, December 22, 2024, Chelsea visited Everton at Goodison Park in the continuation of the 2024/2025 Premier League. Unexpectedly, the match lasted for 90 minutes.
The Blues were more favored, but Everton fought back well. Chelsea’s attacks during the 90 minutes were wasted due to ineffective finishing.
Chelsea released 12 attempts at shots, 5 of which were on target, but none became goals. Let’s check the full match reviews!
The match started with high intensity. Chelsea immediately attacked, but Everton defended solidly. The first 20 minutes passed quickly. Chelsea’s chances were easily broken.
Chelsea actually had a golden opportunity in the 30th minute. Nicolas Jackson’s corner was perfectly met but his header hit the post. The rebound then sparked a controversial moment when Jordan Pickford tripped Malo Gusto in the box. However, after a VAR review, the penalty appeal was turned down.
At the other end, Everton almost took the lead before the break with a powerful shot from 20 yards that forced a brilliant save from Robert Sanchez to keep the score level.
Despite having 76% of possession in the first half, Chelsea struggled to break down a solid Everton defence. In fact, at the start of the second half, the home side were more dangerous, creating several dangerous chances. However, Chelsea eventually took control of the game after that.
Robert Sanchez showed his class again with a brilliant save, this time denying Jack Harrison from close range with his feet. Chelsea’s defence also had Tosin Adarabioyo to thank, who made a crucial block in the 76th minute to deny Everton a golden goal-scoring opportunity.
Chelsea looked frustrated throughout, with Cole Palmer struggling to overcome Everton’s tight defence, while Nicolas Jackson continued to fail to beat the home side’s centre-back duo. Despite dominating possession, Chelsea were unable to create any meaningful chances.
In contrast, an effective Everton came close to securing victory, but Sanchez’s alertness and Adarabioyo’s heroics ensured the Blues kept a clean sheet. The result meant Chelsea had to settle for a point at Goodison Park.
Robert Sanchez deserves to be chosen as the best player or man of the match Everton vs Chelsea. He performed well to help The Blues secure a point.
Chelsea did play aggressively in this match, but more dangerous opportunities were created by the home team Everton.
Fortunately, The Blues have Robert Sanchez who performed tough under the crossbar. He made 4 important saves to stop the opponent’s chances.
Sanchez is one of the most consistent players on the field. His actions and contributions were given a rating of 8 by FotMob.
