Cardiff vs Chelsea: Player ratings as Maurizio Sarri’s side retain European hopes with controversial late comeback

Cardiff 1-2 Chelsea: Maurizio Sarri's blushes were saved by a late turnaround

Tom Kershaw
Sunday 31 March 2019 15:43 BST
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Maurizio Sarri eager not to put pressure on Calum Hudson-Odoi

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Chelsea rescued three points with a controversial late comeback against Cardiff City to retain their hopes of a top-four finish in the Premier League.

Travelling Chelsea fans called for manager Maurizio Sarri to be sacked after Victor Camarasa put Cardiff ahead just one minute into the second half, volleying cutely into the top corner with Kepa Arrizabalaga's line of sight blocked.

Supporters then continued to vent their frustrations, with Callum Hudson-Odoi remaining on the bench, until Cesar Azpilicueta nodded home from a corner in the 85th minute, despite being clearly offside.

There was further controversy as Antonio Rudiger brought down Kenneth Zohore when the striker appeared to be clean through on goal, but was only awarded a yellow card causing Neil Warnock to become incensed on the touchline.

Ruben Loftus-Cheek then scored the winner on the stroke of 90 minutes to condemn Cardiff to the cruellest of defeats.

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