Chelsea secured a swift return to Wembley as they beat Middlesbrough 2-0 in the FA Cup quarter-finals.
Romelu Lukaku and Hakim Ziyech got the goals in an impressive performance from Thomas Tuchel’s side, who continue to put the off-field distractions to one side and produce on the the pitch.
Chelsea have a remarkable record in knockout competitions under Tuchel, and in the FA Cup across recent seasons, and that looks set to continue.
James Robson was at the Riverside to rate the Chelsea players in a comfortable victory...
Edouard Mendy 7
Had little to do in terms of shots to save, but just exudes confidence in his defenders and commanded his box well.
Cesar Azpilicueta 7
Rolled back the years with some timely interceptions as Boro mounted a comeback in the second half. Supported Ziyech well.
Thiago Silva 8
Never put a foot wrong. Always in the right place at the right time and the starting point for so many attacks.
Toni Rudiger 7
Totally in charge every time Boro tried to attack down his side – never giving an inch of space.
Malang Sarr 7
Impresses every time he is called up at left back. Might not have the same attacking qualities as other option, but so assured.
Mateo Kovacic 8
He is such a pivotal part of Chelsea’s midfield – even if not a guaranteed starter. His driving run was key to Ziyech’s goal by breaking the lines and stretching Boro out of shape.
Ruben Loftus-Cheek 7
Very impressive use of the ball and energy to dominate in the middle of the pitch. Regularly forced Boro to retreat with his forward passing.
Mason Mount 9
Made two – and might have doubled his assist count with his brilliant delivery. Is he finding his top form at the right time?
Hakim Ziyech 8
Absolute wonder strike killed the game off. Aside from that, he worked so hard covering the right hand side ahead of Azpilicueta.
Romelu Lukaku 6
Got on the score sheet to establish himself as Chelsea’s leading scorer this season with 12 goals. Should do his confidence the world of good.
Christian Pulisic 6
Dangerous with his runs down the left in the first half. But he was not the same after hurting his ankle.
Timo Werner (Pulisic, 68) 4
Had one good chance that he really should have taken.
N’Golo Kante (Kovacic, 69) 5
Snuffed out Boro’s hopes in the middle.
Kenedy (Ziyech, 81)
Harvey Vale (Lukaku, 84)
Subs: Bettinelli, Alonso, Chalobah, Barkley, Havertz
