Josh Acheampong’s composed Champions League start and Wesley Fofana’s early eye injury suggest Acheampong could start again vs Everton. Betting angle: consider backing Acheampong to start or targeting player props (tackles/interceptions); Chelsea’s defensive uncertainty also keeps goals markets and “both teams to score” options attractive for punters.
Acheampong shines in Champions League despite Chelsea defeat
Chelsea fell 2-1 to Atalanta, but 19-year-old Josh Acheampong emerged as one of the few positives after making his first Champions League start. Deployed at right-back, Acheampong offered defensive stability and versatility — allowing Reece James and later Malo Gusto to shift into midfield roles.
Tactical impact and manager reaction
Head coach Enzo Maresca praised the teenager’s performance: "He was good. Josh was good. Josh, when he plays, he's always doing the right things. We're quite happy for him." Team-mates also noted the clean, confident display that could accelerate Acheampong’s pathway into more senior minutes.
Defensive stats underline composed display
Acheampong produced seven defensive contributions: one tackle, two blocks and three interceptions. He won all three of his duels and committed just one foul, numbers that underline a composed, effective showing at a high level.
Fofana injury boosts Acheampong’s chances
Wesley Fofana exited after 30 minutes with an eye injury, an early blow that may open the door for Acheampong to feature more regularly in upcoming fixtures. That potential absence gives the youngster a clearer route into the starting XI.
Looking ahead to Everton and selection implications
Chelsea return to Premier League duties at Stamford Bridge against Everton on Saturday. With Acheampong’s strong outing and Fofana’s uncertain fitness, expect selection debates around right-back and defensive midfield balance as Maresca assesses his options.
What this means for bettors
Acheampong’s breakthrough and Fofana’s injury change short-term selection probability. Punters might consider backing Acheampong to start or targeting player markets (tackles/interceptions) while viewing Chelsea’s defence as less secure — keeping goal markets and “both teams to score” wagers appealing for the Everton match.
Palladino: ‘A magical night for Atalanta’ with 2-1 victory over Chelsea
Enzo Maresca believes young defender Josh Acheampong's solid performance was among the few positives for Chelsea in their 2-1 Champions League defeat to Atalanta on Tuesday.
Si