Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca said his side recorded a convincing 3-0 win over Barcelona in the Champions League at Stamford Bridge on Tuesday night due to his team’s efficient game plan.

Fresh from a frustrating draw against Qarabag, Chelsea produced one of their most confident displays of the season. A first-half own goal from Jules Kounde set the tone, and Barcelona’s task became even harder when Ronald Araujo received his marching orders.

Chelsea pressed their advantage after the interval, with Willian Estevao and Liam Delap adding well-taken goals to seal a memorable victory.

Speaking after the match, Maresca explained that limiting Barcelona’s time on the ball was central to the game plan.

“Barcelona are a team that feels comfortable when they have the ball,” Maresca said.

“If they don’t have the ball, they don’t feel comfortable so we tried to keep the ball.

“Even 11v11, my feeling was very good because the team was playing well.”

The Italian was equally full of praise for Estevao, who continues to grow in confidence following his arrival at the club. The Brazilian impressed again, not only with his goal but with the maturity he has shown behind the scenes.

“Estevao looks like an old-style guy. He is not on his phone all the time, not spending a lot of time on social media,” Maresca told Sky Sports.

“He is working hard, he is a simple and normal kid. I love that. His family is always around.

“He is a special player but a normal guy.”

Estevao will now hope to carry his form into this weekend as Chelsea turn their focus back to the Premier League, where they face a tough test against Arsenal.