MusaChelsea’s Narrow Win Exposes Glaring Striker Problem
While Chelsea secured a vital 1-0 Champions League victory over Benfica to relieve some pressure on manager Enzo Maresca, the performance highlighted a persistent and major issue: a severe lack of potency in attack.
The Blues ended their three-match losing streak with a narrow win, spoiling José Mourinho’s return to Stamford Bridge. The decisive goal came from a first-half Benfica own goal, forced by bright play from wingers Pedro Neto and Alejandro Garnacho.
However, the victory masked a concerning lack of offensive threat, with Chelsea managing only three shots on target throughout the match. This problem was epitomized by the struggles of young academy striker Tyrique George.
George Fails to Grasp His Chance
Maresca’s decision to start Tyrique George, fresh off a goal against Lincoln City in the EFL Cup, backfired. The youngster found the step up to Champions League level difficult and was largely anonymous.
Tyrique George vs. Benfica (via FotMob)
· Touches: 15
· Shots on target: 1/1 (100%)
· Accurate passes: 8/9 (89%)
· Aerial duels won: 1/1 (100%)
With Chelsea goalkeeper Robert Sanchez registering more touches, George’s substitution after 61 minutes was inevitable. His continued selection has puzzled fans, especially after the club nearly sold him to Fulham in the summer and recalled Marc Guiu from a loan at Sunderland, only to leave him unused.
A Deep-Seated Attacking Crisis
The reliance on an own goal underscores Chelsea’s striker crisis. Maresca’s options are severely limited:
· Liam Delap is injured.
· João Pedro is not fully fit.
The situation worsened late in the game when Pedro received a red card, ruling him out of the crucial next European fixture against Ajax. With few reliable options and a toothless display despite the win, Chelsea’s attacking woes remain a significant threat to their campaign.
Musa
Kwaghterna Garshagu