In a commanding Premier League performance, Chelsea secured a 3-1 away victory over a struggling Crystal Palace side, who were reduced to ten men during the match. The win, Chelsea's first under manager Liam Rosenior on the road in the league, was spearheaded by an outstanding display from 18-year-old Brazilian talent Estevao.
Teenage Prodigy Makes His Mark
The young forward opened the scoring in the 34th minute at Selhurst Park, capitalising on a defensive error from Palace's Jaydee Canvot. Despite pressure from Tyrick Mitchell, Estevao unleashed a powerful left-footed strike to break the deadlock. He then turned provider early in the second half, setting up Joao Pedro to double Chelsea's advantage just four and a half minutes after the restart.
Palace's Defensive Woes Continue
Crystal Palace, already on an 11-game winless streak across all competitions, found themselves further hampered when Adam Wharton received a second yellow card in the 73rd minute, leaving them a man down. Their troubles were compounded by a penalty decision that went against them shortly after the hour mark.
Referee Darren England, after consulting VAR, awarded Chelsea a penalty when Joao Pedro's close-range effort struck Canvot, initially appearing to hit his hip before brushing his upper arm. The decision resulted in a yellow card for Canvot but no sending off. Enzo Fernandez confidently converted the spot-kick, firing past Palace goalkeeper Dean Henderson to make it 3-0.
Consolation Goal Provides Little Solace
The home side managed a late consolation in the 88th minute when Chris Richards headed home from a ricocheted clearance following a save from Chelsea goalkeeper Robert Sanchez. However, this did little to mask another disappointing performance for Palace, whose manager Oliver Glasner is set to depart in the summer.
Chelsea Overcome Key Absence
Chelsea entered the match without injured star Cole Palmer, hoping to avoid a fourth consecutive Premier League draw against their out-of-form hosts. Despite some early pressure from Palace, including chances for Jean-Philippe Mateta and Ismaila Sarr, Chelsea grew into the game and ultimately dominated proceedings.
Palace had opportunities of their own, with Sarr returning from Senegal's Africa Cup of Nations campaign and nearly punishing Chelsea for defensive lapses. New signing Brennan Johnson also threatened, but was denied by a well-timed intervention from Andrey Santos. However, defensive errors proved costly for the Eagles, who now face an increasingly difficult battle to turn their season around.
The victory provides a significant boost for Chelsea under Rosenior's leadership, showcasing the depth of their squad and the exciting potential of young talents like Estevao, who impressed throughout in Palmer's absence.
