Chelsea stormed to the top of the Premier League table with a commanding 5-1 win over West Ham at the London Stadium, showcasing both resilience and attacking flair in their second London derby of the season.
And while the scoreline might suggest an easy evening, it was a performance built on overcoming an early setback and capitalising on an unexpected opportunity for one of their youngest stars.
The Blues were rocked just minutes before kick-off when Cole Palmer, their creative fulcrum, was forced to withdraw from the starting XI with a minor injury in the warm-up.
Into the side stepped 18-year-old Estevao Willian, and though his inexperience was briefly exposed when his loose pass led to Lucas Paqueta’s stunning opener for the hosts, he responded in spectacular fashion to help turn the game around.
Joao Pedro spearheaded Chelsea’s comeback with a towering header to equalise, assisted by Marc Cucurella’s clever flick.
From there, the visitors took control as Pedro turned provider, teeing up Pedro Neto for a blistering half-volley before Estevao’s superb wing play allowed Enzo Fernandez to tap home a third before the break.
The away end roared their approval, sensing that Maresca’s side had found their attacking rhythm even without their injured star.
In the second half, Chelsea were ruthless. Moises Caicedo capitalised on poor goalkeeping from Mads Hermansen to score from a corner, and Trevoh Chalobah added a fifth with a close-range finish to seal a dominant display.
So here is your Chelsea Player Ratings vs West Ham (Week 2, 2025/26).
Chelsea Player Ratings vs West Ham
Robert Sanchez – 5
Caught off guard by Lucas Paqueta’s thunderous opener and struggled with his positioning early on, particularly when dealing with crosses. While he steadied himself as the match progressed, his distribution under pressure was shaky and could have put Chelsea in trouble.
Malo Gusto – 6
Defensively sound for most of the game, showing good recovery pace when West Ham countered. However, he offered little going forward and was replaced late on as Chelsea sought fresh legs in attack.
Trevoh Chalobah – 7
Initially at fault for leaving space in behind for West Ham’s goal but responded well thereafter. Scored Chelsea’s fifth with a poacher’s finish and produced several key interceptions to prevent further danger.
Tosin Adarabioyo – 6
A composed figure in Chelsea’s back three, rarely troubled after the early setback. Distributed the ball well from the back but lacked the assertiveness in aerial duels that could have eased pressure sooner.
Marc Cucurella – 8
One of Chelsea’s best performers on the night, constantly providing width and energy down the left. His clever flick led to the equaliser, and he won crucial defensive duels to keep West Ham pinned back.
Moises Caicedo – 8
Dominant in midfield with relentless pressing and intelligent positioning. Got his reward with a goal from a set piece and consistently disrupted West Ham’s attempts to build attacks.
Enzo Fernandez – 8
Enzo Fernandez delivered a trademark display, timing his run perfectly into the six-yard box to slot home. It was the kind of intelligent movement he showcased repeatedly last season.
After a subdued outing against Crystal Palace five days earlier, he redeemed himself with a commanding performance at the London Stadium. He could have added to his tally in the second half but wasted a golden chance by firing over.
Estevao Willian – 8
Showed remarkable character after his early error led to West Ham’s opener. Grew into the game, providing the assist for Enzo’s goal and causing constant problems for the defence with his dribbling and pace.
Pedro Neto – 8
Direct and dangerous, particularly on the counter, and took his goal superbly. Combined well with Joao Pedro throughout, offering a constant outlet on the wing.
Joao Pedro – 9
Chelsea’s standout performer, leading the fightback with a towering header to level the score. Added two assists and was a constant menace to the West Ham backline with his movement and hold-up play.
Liam Delap – 7
Worked tirelessly up front, linking play effectively and playing a key role in the build-up to Enzo’s goal. Lacked a goal himself but was vital to Chelsea’s attacking structure.
Substitutes:
Andrey Santos – 6: Brought energy off the bench and helped see out the game.
Reece James – 7: Provided defensive assurance and supported attacks well in his cameo.
Jorrel Hato – 6: Solid and composed after coming on.
Wesley Fofana – 6 :Nice to see him return. Comfortable on the ball.
Jamie Gittens – N/A: Not enough time to make an impact.
