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There is a reason why the Premier League is considered one of the most competitive leagues in the world. All the games are competitive and the title race is always unpredictable. Chelsea earned a hard-fought victory over Brighton and increased their chances of getting back in the title race. Chelsea beat Brighton by 1-2, courtesy of goals from Pedro and Eden Hazard.
The victory was not an easy one for Chelsea. Brighton got one back through Solomon March in the 66th minute and they were pushing hard for the equalizer. However, Chelsea held their shape and didn't concede a second goal and got the must needed 3 points. Chelsea is now eight points behind the current league leaders Liverpool.
Chelsea are currently fourth in the Premier League standings. With City and Liverpool playing well, the blues need to continue their winning run in order to keep their title hope alive.
Without much ado, here we take a look at 5 Chelsea players who shined against Brighton.
#5 Cesar Azpilicueta
The Spaniard was one of the best players on the field. Chelsea captain continued his splendid form and played an important role in Chelsea's victory. The right-back made a significant block in the starting minute of the game.
Moreover, he didn't give space to cross the ball and was excellent on the right side. Azpilicueta came close to grabbing an assist when he beautifully placed a low cross towards hazard, who couldn't adjust his body and failed to score.
The 29 years old has not missed a single minute in the Premier League. Azpilicueta is a crucial asset for Chelsea, and he needs to keep his form in order battle for the title.
#4 Pedro
The Spaniard is enjoying his days at Chelsea. The former Barcelona man scored the opening goal for Chelsea. It was an easy tap-in for him as rest of the work was done by Eden Hazard. Pedro's performance devastated under former Antonio Conte but under Sarri his form has rejuvenated.
The 31-year-old winger scored his 6th premier league goal of the season against Brighton which is 2 more than his total tally in the last season. He was excellent in passing and almost completed 70% of his passes.
#3 N'Golo Kante
It looks like N'Golo Kante is enjoying his new position under Maurizio Sarri. Kante had a decent game against Brighton in the Premier League. It looks like he started enjoying his new role. The French Wolrd Cup winner played a crucial role in Chelsea's victory. He supported Jorginho in the midfield and helped in quick passing of the ball.
Kante fluently linked the defence line with attackers and also made some important interceptions in the match. However, in the starting minutes, he made sloppy passes but as the game progressed he gained momentum and helped in building Chelsea's attack. In total, Kante has started to contribute more and more with every game.
#2 Antonio Rudiger
The centre-back had a fabulous display against Brighton in the Premier League. He won headers and kept Brighton attackers Glen Murray and Florin Andone in his pocket. He was comfortable in defending and didn't face much danger.
Furthermore, he came close to scoring a goal when his header just went aside. In total, Rudiger was one of the best Chelsea players in the match.
#1 Eden Hazard
Eden Hazard scored his 9th goal of the campaign against Brighton. He bagged one goal and one assist in the match. He has now 9 goals and 9 assists in the Premier League. This was Hazard's second match as a false 9 and he sublimely played his role.
The Belgian International was unstoppable in the match and he dribbled past defenders like a knife in the butter. There is no doubt Hazard is a world class player and one can easily figure out why he is compared with Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.
Hazard is an integral part of Chelsea and he will play a significant role for them in the title race.
