Enzo Maresca issues honest verdict on Chelsea display in 1-0 win vs Benfica | OneFootball

Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca was impressed with his side’s performance in the 1-0 Champions League win against Benfica, although he admitted that they need to do better.

After kicking off their European campaign with a disappointing 3-1 defeat against Bayern Munich, Chelsea needed a response to get back on track.

The Blues were far from their sparkling best, but a first-half own goal from Richard Rios was enough to get them over the line at Stamford Bridge.

“The effort was very good,” Maresca said in his post-match interview (via BBC).

“First half I think we were better compared to the second half in the way we managed the ball and created chances. Second half we dropped.

“In the last two, three games, we have conceded two, three goals, and it’s not possible to do that. We need to be better defensively, but a clean sheet is nice.”

For the third time in their last four games across all competitions, Chelsea ended the game with 10 men after Joao Pedro’s late dismissal.

The Brazilian striker was booked just one minute after replacing Tyrique George on the hour mark before picking up a second yellow for dangerous foul play late in stoppage time.

Maresca, who has come under intense scrutiny recently, admitted that his side need to do better on that front but was delighted that they were able to see out the win with a numerical disadvantage.

“A good thing is we are improving and we can win with 10 players,” he added. “But I think he did not touch on the second one, but the dynamic of it is that it was dangerous.

“For us, it is a journey that started this season, and game after game, we get better.”

Chelsea return to Premier League action this weekend when they take on reigning champions Liverpool.

The Reds will be keen to bounce back after losing back-to-back games, so Chelsea will need to bring their A-game if they’re to get a result against the champions on home turf.