Unstoppable Hazard: Chelsea Player Ratings From A Commanding Win Over Cardiff

Maurizio Sarri will be a happy man with his side’s performance against Cardiff City, as Chelsea managed to cruise to yet another win. The Blues have won each of their first five league games this season and are level on points with Liverpool at the top of the table.

Eden Hazard was the difference between the two sides, as he scored just his second hat-trick as a Chelsea player, blowing Neil Warnock’s side away.

Here are the Chelsea player ratings:

Kepa Arrizabalaga (5)

Could have done better to stop Bamba’s goal but was hardly tested otherwise.

Cesar Azpilicueta (7)

With three key passes and a passing accuracy of 93%, the Spaniard was impressive on the right flank, also registering three tackles, and frustrating the visitors all game.

Antonio Rudiger (7)

The German came out on top against Ward and Reid, winning six aerial duels and never giving them a chance in front of goal.

David Luiz (6.5)

Was dispossessed a couple of times as he never seems too far away from a mistake. But was otherwise pretty solid, helping his side to an easy win.

Marcos Alonso (7)

With three key passes to his name, Alonso was again immense going forward.

Jorginho (6)

At fault in the build-up to Cardiff’s opener and also left the Chelsea backline vulnerable on a couple of occasions.

N’Golo Kante (6.5)

He did win the ball back on six different occasions for Chelsea but does not look as comfortable as before, playing in the advanced role.

Mateo Kovacic (7)

Created a couple of chances and tested Neil Etheridge in the first half. Unlucky to pick up a knock.

Pedro (6.5)

With four shots but none on target, Pedro did not have the greatest nights but his pace and grit was enough to keep Cardiff City pegged back for most of the game.

Eden Hazard (10)

The best player on the pitch, Hazard was unstoppable on the night, completing four dribbles. He scored with every shot he took on target and also had a passing accuracy of 89%. He troubled every outfield player and was the match winner for the Blues.

Olivier Giroud (7)

Was happy to play second fiddle to Hazard and seems to be a better fit in Sarri’s system than Alvaro Morata. Picked up two assists from three key passes and his awareness in the final third could be crucial for Chelsea in the coming weeks.

Substitutes

Ross Barkley (6)

Came on to replace the injured Kovacic and fit in seamlessly, testing the Cardiff City backline with every opportunity.

Willian (6)

Looked determined from the moment he came on and scored a superb goal to take his side to the top of the league table.

Davide Zappacosta (N/A)

Stat Credit: Whoscored.com