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Thibaut Courtois, Gary Cahill singled out by French press in 'lucky' Chelsea win

Wednesday 18 February 2015 13:05, UK

Courtois impressed the French media
Image: Courtois impressed the French media

Chelsea had Thibaut Courtois to thank for a 'lucky' Champions League draw with PSG, according to the media in France.

The Blues shot-stopper made several saves to keep out the hosts as Jose Mourinho’s men earned a 1-1 draw in the first leg of their last-16 clash at the Parc des Princes.

Edinson Cavani cancelled out Branislav Ivanovic’s opener, but it was Courtois who caught the eye in the French capital as the press said Chelsea were lucky to escape with a draw.

“Arriving mainly to defend, with Ramires and Matic front of the defence, Chelsea got more than they hoped for by scoring an away goal,” wrote L’Equipe. 

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“Dominating the game, the Parisians created many opportunities, but came up against an excellent Courtois.” 

The newspaper was not overly impressed with the rest of the Chelsea side, with Gary Cahill coming under fire for his marking as Cavani was allowed to head in unmarked.

L’Equipe player ratings

Thibaut Courtois: 8

Courtois made several saves in Paris
Image: Courtois made several saves in Paris

Branislav Ivanovic: 5

Ivanovic continued his fine scoring form
Image: Ivanovic continued his fine scoring form

Gary Cahill: 3

Cahill was given the blame for Cavani's equaliser
Image: Cahill was given the blame for Cavani's equaliser

John Terry: 4

Chelsea's defence had a busy night
Image: Chelsea's defence had a busy night

Cesar Azpilicueta: 5

Azpilicueta had his work cut out on the flank
Image: Azpilicueta had his work cut out on the flank

Ramires: 5

Ramires was deployed in a defensive midfield duo
Image: Ramires was deployed in a defensive midfield duo

Nemanja Matic: 4

Matic didn't impress the French press
Image: Matic didn't impress the French press

Willian: 3

Willian has been on good form but was quiet in Paris
Image: Willian has been on good form but was quiet in Paris

Cesc Fabregas: 4

Fabregas battled illness to play
Image: Fabregas battled illness to play

Eden Hazard: 6

Hazard was a tricky customer
Image: Hazard was a tricky customer

Diego Costa: 4

Costa was rarely involved in the match
Image: Costa was rarely involved in the match

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