Former Stamford Bridge star Pat Nevin was in awe of Estebao Willian, who scored a brilliant individual move, a real breakthrough for the young Brazilian, as Chelsea beat Barcelona 3-0 in the Champions League.
The Blues got off to the right start, inviting Hansi Flick’s high line to lure Barcelona in. Many warning signs were also given to the Spaniards. Wesley Fofana’s hand spared them an early blush before the linesman’s flag suggested Flick had chosen his tactics well in his trip to Stamford Bridge. But it was clear that it was inevitable.
In the 27th minute, Barcelona and Jules Kounde completed the job Enzo Fernandes believed he had done twice before: scoring the back of the goal to give Chelsea the lead. An own goal opened the door in the first half of an onslaught that didn’t let up after the break as West London were treated to an Estevao show.
On a night centered around Lamine Yamal, one of the candidates for the first Ballon d’Or in 2026, it was Chelsea’s youngster who shone the brightest with a stunning goal in the 55th minute. The 18-year-old has proven to be one of the best players of the Todd Boley era.
Barring a futile early effort from Ferran Torres, Barcelona could not get a hold of Enzo Maresca’s dominant side. This was not what the Spanish club showed in 2005. In fact, it was amazing to see the hosts’ biggest victory in history against Barcelona in the Champions League.
With this stunning victory, they now have three wins from five games in the Champions League, and have attracted attention as a potential dark horse. They have a lot of history in recent European football and it was another memorable night.
Pat Nevin impressed with ‘absolutely brilliant’ Estevao
When news broke earlier this week that Cole Palmer had suffered a broken toe in an accident at home, there was understandably concern around west London as to where the Blues would continue to find their bright spots. But Mr. Estevao would not have shared that concern. He saw an opportunity – he grabbed it with both hands against Barcelona, against every team.
He finished the night with three chances, one goal and eight touches inside Barcelona’s box, earning him much-deserved praise from Nevin. The former Chelsea player was shocked by the teenage sensation, telling BBC Sport: “Did you know? Start believing the hype! Estevao Willian is special!”
“The way he passed the first player, there was no space at all and he left him alone. He did it with just pure technique and quick feet. There was still a difficult angle to overcome to finish, but he leathered it into the goal.”
“He’s definitely and absolutely going to be a great player. It’s not a question of if, it’s a question of when and how great.”
