The final whistle had barely sounded, yet the tension still crackled in the air after a fiercely contested London derby. Former Chelsea captain John Terry didn't hesitate to voice his assessment: only one team had truly come to win.
Speaking immediately after the match, Terry emphatically stated Chelsea’s commitment, praising their resilience despite playing a significant portion of the game with ten men. He singled out Trevoh Chalobah, expressing genuine delight at the defender’s crucial goal.
Chalobah had indeed fired Chelsea ahead, a moment of brilliance that ignited the game. Terry believed his team dominated the first half, showcasing a level of aggression and intent that their opponents lacked.
He described a team relentlessly pressing forward, embracing the physicality expected of a London derby. Players were throwing themselves into tackles, displaying a hunger that resonated with the demanding atmosphere.
However, Terry also voiced frustration with the referee’s early decisions, believing the quick succession of yellow cards stifled the game’s momentum. He acknowledged the red card shown to Caicedo as justifiable, recognizing the significant loss his team would feel.
Despite the numerical disadvantage, Terry reiterated his conviction that Chelsea were the more determined side. Their attacking play was direct and swift on the counter, while their defense remained remarkably solid.
He acknowledged the physical toll the match took, especially considering their recent demanding schedule – a clash against Barcelona and a trip to Burnley. The team’s performance, he insisted, was a testament to their character.
Set-pieces had been a focal point in their preparation, and Chalobah’s goal proved the value of that focus. Terry emphasized the importance of capitalizing on these opportunities, and they had done just that.
He pointed to Arsenal’s impressive form, acknowledging their position at the top of the league. But he also stressed that Chelsea had prevented Arsenal from extending their lead in the title race.
Today’s performance, Terry concluded, demonstrated Chelsea’s ability to compete with the league’s best. They had proven they could challenge any team and make a serious run for the championship.
