Chelsea got their first 3 points on the board in the Champions League over Jose Mourinho’s Benfica.
Richard Rios’ own goal was enough for Chelsea to take home a 1-0 win.
It wasn’t a pretty performance, but it was one that got through the match with the all important victory.
But one performance which fans and Maresca alike will be pleased to see, is that of Benoit Badiashile.
The Frenchman made his return from injury against Brighton, and his first start back came against Benfica.
His performance against Brighton was slightly chaotic, but against the Portuguese team it was a completely different story.
Starting at the left hand side of the defence, he was able to be a calm and composed figure alongside Trevoh Chalobah.
Chalobah was also solid to his credit, and made up for a lot of recent mistakes.
But the returning Badiashile brought a level of calmness to the defence that has been a rarity for the Blues this season.
He had 107 touches in the game, which was the highest of any Chelsea player in the match.
Alongside that he had a 96% pass accuracy, misplacing just 4 of his 99 passes.
Defensive duties was also a highlight for the former Monaco man, as he was able to make 3 clearances, win 2 ground duels and he wasn’t dribbled past once either.
Since Levi Colwill’s injury, Chelsea have needed someone to step up in his absence.
That’s needed more now than ever, as it seems the sporting directors are hesitant to get Maresca a new centre-half.
But the Blues manager might’ve found his man, that’s if Badiashile can stay fit and consistent though.
That ‘if’ is a massive one as well. He’s struggled as of late to do either, particularly the former.
But we know the quality that the Frenchman possesses, and if he can continue to show the composed defender we saw today then the Blues might’ve found a suitable replacement for Colwill.
Next up is Liverpool in the Premier League before the international break.
Hopefully Badiashile continues his good form if he starts in the match, tonight will give him and the team confidence.
