Ten Things We Learnt from Chelsea’s Club World Cup Win Over Esperance

Chelsea’s 3-0 win over Esperance in the FIFA Club World Cup may have looked routine on paper, but it gave fans a lot to think about. From individual performances to tactical tweaks, here are ten things we learnt from the match:

1. Madueke Looks Like He’s Waking Up
There’s a noticeable improvement in Noni Madueke. Perhaps the recent reports of the club considering selling him due to poor form have served as a wake-up call. He played with more intent, and if he keeps this up, he could still carve out a role for himself this season.

2. Acheampong Should Be Second-Choice Right Back
Josh Acheampong had another solid game. He looks more composed than Malo Gusto and deserves a bigger role going forward. Chelsea should give him more game time to build his confidence as he could be a long-term option in that position.

3. Gusto Found His Rhythm Eventually
Although he struggled at the start, Malo Gusto grew into the game, especially when he moved into midfield. His ability to adapt mid-game shows he still has something to offer as a rotational option.

4. Too Soon to Hype Delap, But His Goal Was Class
Liam Delap’s first Chelsea goal was a thing of beauty—sharp turn, composure, and a cool finish. It’s early days, but if he continues like this, he’ll be knocking on the door for regular starts, especially in cup games and lower-pressure Premier League matches.

5. Santos Looked Nervous, But It’s a Start
Andrey Santos didn’t have the smoothest appearance. He seemed nervous, lost the ball a few times, but tried to be positive. He attempted a shot from distance that almost earned a penalty—something he did well at Strasbourg. With more minutes, he’ll settle.

6. Caicedo Is Still Chelsea’s Only Combative Defensive Midfielder

Moises Caicedo is clearly Chelsea’s only natural ball-winner in midfield. Essugo shows potential, but he’s still learning and will have to serve as Caicedo’s understudy for now. That role remains thin in depth.

7. Nkunku Doesn’t Look Like the Answer at AM
Christopher Nkunku was used in his preferred attacking midfield role, but the spark was missing. He didn’t influence the game as expected. Chelsea might need to rethink how best to utilise him.

8. Chelsea Still Need a Left-Sided Right-Footer Who Can Score
The left flank continues to lack a true threat. Chelsea need a right-footed player who can cut in and shoot with purpose from that side, a profile that’s clearly missing in the squad right now.

9. No Disrespect, But This Was an Easy Opponent
Let’s be honest, Esperance didn’t offer much threat. Chelsea’s goalkeeper was barely involved, and the game should have been won by a bigger margin. It’s hard to judge Chelsea’s level based on a match like this.

10. Still Not Ready for EPL and UCL Battles
Despite the win, the performance doesn’t scream “title contenders.” Chelsea still look short in several areas, especially squad depth and consistency. Matches like these are helpful, but they don’t mask the fact that Chelsea aren’t yet ready to compete at the top of the Premier League with the likes of Liverpool and Arsenal.

Final Word
Chelsea now face Benfica in the round of 16, a tougher test that will show how far they have really come.