What We Learned From Chelsea’s Loss To FC Basel

Chelsea fell to a 1-0 defeat away at FC Basel last night in the Champions League, and although the Blues have qualified for the knockout rounds, there was a lot to moan about. Here are five things that we learned from the tie.

1) Basel are solid

Ivan Ivanov and Fabian Schar proved to those who were watching that they are an incredible partnership. The former made five clearances, won all of his headers and made three interceptions, while the latter made six clearances, six interceptions and two tackles.

2) Ramires needs to beef up

Although the Brazilian is having a cracking season, he proved last night that when up against a combative central midfielder that he can often come up short. He’s an aggressive player but doesn’t have the strength to back it up.

3) Chelsea need to change their game up

The Blues were predictable last night – so much so that Basel were able to rack up 16 interceptions to cut out their game and win the majority of headers. Chelsea need pace to play their game effectively and when they don’t have it they can look limp.

4) De Bruyne is still in Mourinho’s plans

The young Belgian made a late appearance, which perhaps suggests that Mourinho isn’t ready to offload him just yet.

5) Salah is the real deal

He scored against the Blues in the reverse fixture but some had written it off as a fluke, but again he tore Chelsea to pieces. He scored once, had three shots, won 100% of his take ons and completed 80% of his passing.