Chelsea swept aside their domestic concerns and got their Champions League campaign off to the best possible start with a comprehensive 4-0 win over Maccabi Tel-Aviv.
Jose Mourinho claimed he wanted a “new dynamic” as he made a host of changes for the visit of the Israeli side. Bringing in teenager Ruben Loftus-Cheek was a gamble that paid off, while Oscar and Willian also impressed.
But for Ghanaians, Baba Rahman is the focus. How did the 21-year old fare on his debut for the Blues? –
Moses Yeboah, Joy Sports: 6/10
He made a few mistakes and also seemed to overcommit at times. But for a first game, his composure was commendable. But it is clear the combination of Azpilicueta and Rahman will work for Chelsea. The Ghanaian shouldn’t try too hard to impress but should play at his natural pace.
Eric Boadi, Adom Sports: 6/10
In the first half, he started well but as the pressure increased in the game, Baba gave a few faulty passes. Despite that, you cannot fault his confidence in his first game. Worth noting that Azpi covered well for him so he wasn’t found wanting. Baba needs to work on his recovery.
Abdul Salam Ghali, Joy Sports: 4/10
He was shaky defensively, although he gave Hazard the freedom to roam. His passing was faulty. He didn’t make any impactful crosses from the left of attack. The one he managed to get right went beyond everyone. Mourinho has been proved right in not fielding him against Everton. In that game, Baba would have met more attacking opposition who’d have given him problems. Playing Maccabi at home was a good chance for him to be tested in a low pressure atmosphere. He convinced the coach, but only to the extent that there is room for improvement.
Stephen Kissi, Asempa Sports: 7/10
His tackling and overlapping were impressive. Rahman reminds me of Ashley Cole – quick runs forward and then equally fast dashes back. His dribbling was also good. The only minus is how he seemed to handle pressure and it could be a problem, as evidenced in the second half.
Gary Al-Smith, Joy Sports: 7/10
It wasn’t easy for the Ghanaian to make his debut with the team low on confidence and leaking goals. His first half performance had as many impressive moments as errors but as the match went on he grew in confidence, especially on the overlap where he forged a good partnership with Eden Hazard. Great to have a natural left footer who is able to put in a good curling cross. Some sloppy passes but overall a good enough debut to build on and show he could have a great future in the position.
George Addo Jnr, Joy Sports: 6/10
His attacking intent was good to see, but he was quite cautious as well. Something to watch is his good off the ball movement and although he had a few mistakes in passing, he was mostly enterprising.
The Mirror, UK: 6/10
A decent debut, but will he be trusted in the Premier League?
The Express, UK: 7/10
An encouraging debut and was a constant threat going forward.
The Telegraph: N/A
Baba Rahman was not really tested on his debut.
Goal.com: 6/10
Drafted in for his Blues debut at left-back and produced a bullishly energetic performance. A promising first appearance.
The Sun: 6/10
Baba did well. The left back pushed forwards regularly to attack – blazing a free kick wide in the first half. And although his forays forwards left spaces behind him, he ensured he tracked back to defend. Definitely a lot of room to improve.
The Independent, UK: 7/10
For Azpilicueta to start [against Arsenal this weekend] that would mean risking the raw, but promising, Baba Rahman on the left. The Ghanaian had an interesting debut and is clearly a very gifted athlete, possessing great pace and strength. He is a tremendous asset going forward and unlike Azpilicueta, who tends to cut inside and slow down the play, Rahman was always willing to burst past Eden Hazard and provide an option on the overlap. He started a bit nervously in defence, jumping into tackles and overcommitting, but eventually settled into a good attacking showing, bar a couple of wayward deliveries. But most of the danger came down his side as he was often up the pitch and out of position. He would have to play a more disciplined role if he starts against Arsenal.
Sports Mole, UK: 7/10
In for his full debut and put in a positive display down the left flank. His passing and crossing was found wanting at times, but there were encouraging signs.
Sports Keeda, India: 7/10
The Ghanaian youngster finally made his debut at left back and he made an immediate impression winning the ball on several occasions. He also provided a glimpse of his crossing abilities. But he was caught napping during a set piece from which Maccabi could have easily scored.
ESPN: 7/10
An impressive debut for the £17 million summer signing from Augsburg. Gave the ball away cheaply once in the first half, but was otherwise defensively assured and showed great intent in forward positions where he linked up well with Hazard.
How did you rate Baba on his debut?
