Chelsea fans have every reason to feel proud after Marc Cucurella delivered a sensational performance in Spain’s nail-biting 5-4 victory over France in the UEFA Nations League semi-final.

On a night filled with goals, drama, and world-class talent, it was Cucurella’s defensive mastery that quietly stole the spotlight.
Tasked with the daunting job of keeping Ousmane Dembele quiet, Cucurella barely put a foot wrong. The Chelsea full-back was relentless in his pressing, disciplined in his positioning, and calm under pressure – effectively “pocketing” the dangerous French winger and nullifying one of France’s biggest threats on the flank.

Even as France rallied with a flurry of goals late on, Cucurella remained composed and assured. His reading of the game, timing in tackles, and intelligent movement helped Spain retain control during tense moments.

Operating in the left-back role, he displayed the kind of maturity and tactical awareness that Chelsea fans have become familiar with during the second half of last season. His improved form under pressure at Stamford Bridge seems to be translating seamlessly onto the international stage.

With Spain now through to the final where they’ll face Portugal, Cucurella is expected to once again play a central role. His resurgence in 2024 is becoming one of football’s quiet success stories – and if he continues like this, the “best left-back in the world” tag might not sound so far-fetched after all.

Cucurella is no longer just a squad player – for both club and country, he’s becoming indispensable.