[Player Ratings] Sunderland 2-1 Chelsea: Chelsea Dumped Out By Ki’s Late Strike

Chelsea crashed out of the Capital One Cup as Ki Sung-Yeung’s extra-time winner saw Sunderland come from behind to win 2-1.

Chelsea were in control and took a fortuitous lead a minute after half-time through a Lee Cattermole own-goal. The Blues missed several chances in the second half and paid the price when Fabio Borini equalised in the 88th minute, and Chelsea were made to rue a series of missed opportunities when Ki’s low drive flew beyond keeper Mark Schwarzer in extra-time.

Jose Mourinho predictably rung the changes ahead of the clash at the Stadium of Light, with only three players who started against Crystal Palace on Saturday keeping their place in the side- David Luiz, Cesar Azpilicueta and summer signing Willian.

The overhaul did not seem to cause too much disruption as Chelsea dominated proceedings. Willian was busiest for the Blues, seeking possession and forcing Sunderland into errors. Wes Brown gave the Brazilian the ball in the first half but his shot was dragged wide.

Samuel Eto’o also went close before the break but Chelsea’s dominance paid off just a minute after the restart when Cattermole was unfortunate to put into his own net from an Azpilicueta cross.

The goal needed confirmation from goal-line technology, introduced for the first time this season, but Sunderland kept themselves in the game, despite Chelsea having chances to double their lead.

Eto’o was clean through shortly after the goal but Black Cat’s keeper Vito Mannone denied the striker and Borini sent the tie into extra-time, converting from a tight angle after Jozy Altidore’s effort was blocked.

Borini had two chances to win the game minutes into extra-time while David Luiz nearly won the tie in spectacular style with a volley. But Chelsea’s travelling fans were sent home in disappointment when Ki netted the winner with 2 minutes to play.

The defeat brings to an end an impressive run of 15 games in which Mourinho’s Chelsea have avoided defeat in the League Cup.

Player Ratings

Schwarzer- 6- for the most part had very little to do. Made a good save from Ki in extra-time but could not get down in time to prevent his winner.

Azpilicueta- 7- returned to right-back and was a threat throughout, bombing down his flank with speed and purpose. Provided the cross for Chelsea’s goal which was turned in by Cattermole.

Cahill- 6- started in place of Terry but didn’t look as assured as his club captain.

Luiz- 5- looks far more solid by Terry’s side, rather than Cahill’s. Composed bringing the ball out of defence, but looked shaky when Sunderland came forward. Allowed Borini’s shot to go through his legs at the near post for the equaliser.

Cole- 6- average performance from the experienced Englishman. Defended well.

Lampard- 6- dictated much of the play, especially in the first half and start of the second half, but waned towards the end. Put Cattermole under pressure when the Sunderland man netted past his own keeper.

Mikel-6- looked comfortable in possession but failed to protect his back four when Sunderland came forward.

Willian- 7- one of Chelsea’s best performers on the night. Looked to have been given a free-role as he roamed across the midfield. Went close to scoring on a number of occasions. MOTM.

Schurrle- 6- did well to beat his man for pace but too often the final ball was lacking.

De Bruyne- 5- not the winger’s finest performance. Has struggled for first team opportunities and may find himself warming the bench once more after last night’s efforts.

Eto’o- 6- had chances to add to his Chelsea account and should have done better to find the back of the net. A case of missed opportunities for the striker and Chelsea.

Subs

Essien- 6- poor decision from Mourinho to bring him on for Azpilicueta who was one of Chelsea’s better performers. Came on to see the game out – that backfired.

Ba- 5- on for Eto’o with 16 minutes to play but didn’t make the desired impact. Had a chance to score and should have done better.

Hazard- 5- replaced Schurrle for the final minutes of normal time but his showing was in stark contrast to his virtuoso performance in the league here a couple of weeks ago.

How disappointed are you to see Chelsea dumped out of the Capital One Cup?…Who is to blame for the defeat?…Should Mourinho take the flak for substitutions that seemed to stifle Chelsea’s attacking potency?…Or should Eto’o, Willian and Ba have taken their chances when they came along?…What are the Blues’ priorities now?…please leave your comments below…