Moises Caicedo: Ecuadorian media react to Chelsea star’s display in Morocco draw
Moises Caicedo has been hailed by the media for his performance in Ecuador’s 1-1 draw against Morocco on Friday.
The Chelsea midfielder once again showed his quality as the South American nation were minutes away from getting an impressive friendly victory until Neil El Aynaoui netted with two minutes to go.
In recent weeks, Caicedo has been out of form for the Blues, which has helped contribute to their poor results before the international break.
However, against Morocco, he barely put a foot wrong, with their media quick to praise his “dominant” display.
Below, Football Insider has examined the truth behind the performance as the Chelsea star earned the plaudits.
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VISIT THE CHELSEA MATCH HUBMoises Caicedo labelled extremely diligent in Ecuador draw
Caicedo was absolutely everywhere against Morocco.
In midfield, he managed to nullify the threat of the African Cup of Nations holders for the majority of the game in an excellent defensive display.
| Moises Caicedo’s stats vs Morocco | |
| Minutes | 90 |
| Passing accuracy | 90% |
| Big Chances created | 1 |
| Tackles | 1 |
| Clearances | 2 |
| Interceptions | 4 |
| Recoveries | 6 |
His passing range was also particularly impressive, with the 24-year-old rarely misplacing the ball.
As a result, the Ecuadorian media were quick to pick up on his performance and did not hold back in their praise of the Chelsea star.
Primicias on 27 March wrote before awarding a 9/10: “He was extremely diligent in pressing, also recovered balls effectively, and distributed them accurately.
“In a high-pressing system, his contribution is invaluable. It’s a shame he has a reputation as a rough player: he was called for some fouls that were legitimate recoveries.
In comparison, Studio Futbol on 27 March commented while awarding an 8/10: “The heart of the Tri. When Ecuador pressed high, the game was played at their pace. Total domination in the midfield.”
Will Chelsea offer Caicedo a new contract?
Former Man City financial adviser Stefan Borson exclusively told Football Insider that Chelsea’s long contract policy has put them in a difficult negotiation position regarding a new Caicedo deal.
Currently, the midfielder is locked down at Stamford Bridge until 2031, with the Blues having the option of an additional year.
There has been talk about extending Caicedo’s contract for some time at Stamford Bridge, given how good his performances have been this season. However, reports suggest that this will be put on hold until the summer.
However, this could come back to haunt Chelsea if they do not qualify for the Champions League, and could put them in a worst negotiating position.
As a result, it remains to be seen if the Blues can lock Caicedo down to a new deal, or if their past contract mistakes will come back to haunt them in the coming months.