Leicester City exited the FA Cup at the quarter-final stage after suffering a 4-2 defeat to Chelsea at Stamford Bridge.
The scoreline was certainly harsh on Enzo Maresca‘s side, who more than matched their Premier League opposition throughout large spells of the game.
The visitors fought back from two goals down to level the tie after Stephy Mavididi curled home a well-struck effort.
The former Arsenal wide player has enjoyed a terrific debut campaign, netting 11 times whilst laying on four assists across all competitions.
His sensational display evinced that he could mix it with the elite and his equaliser was certainly a deserved one for the visitors.
Stephy Mavididi hailed for performance v Chelsea
It was almost a coming-of-age performance in many ways for Mavididi, who has had to ply his trade abroad in order to realise his dream of playing at the highest level in England.
He was a constant outlet off the left for City and his endeavour was rewarded in the 62nd after netting a sensational solo goal.
“Stunning, stunning finish. Brilliant from Mavididi, who has been getting more and more joy down that left wing,” Sky Sports’ Charlotte Marsh said.
“Leicester deserve it too. Since the restart, they’ve looked like the better team. The home team. The ones on their way to Wembley.”
The 25-year-old has been out of form lately but looked back to his best against a Premier League defence.
Perhaps the occasion brought the best out of Mavididi.
Stephy Mavididi’s stats v Chelsea
Mavididi looked every inch of a Premier League player on Sunday afternoon despite his side suffering defeat.
He only had 38 touches but was incredibly impactful whenever he received the ball and was neat in possession, maintaining an 80 per cent pass completion rate throughout his 75 minutes on the pitch, as per Sofascore.
For all his creativity going forward, the summer signing was equally as solid defensively and made one tackle and interception.
Now, the challenge for Mavididi will be to replicate that display in the Championship, where he has faltered of late.
The fleet-footed winger hasn’t scored or assisted in the league since the end of January and if Leicester are to return to the top flight, he’ll need to get back to his best.
City resume action after the international break and will face Bristol City at Ashton Gate before hosting play-off hopefuls Norwich City to kickstart April.