Chelsea climbed back into the Premier League’s top four with a commanding 3-1 victory over relegation-battling Wolverhampton Wanderers. Despite a spirited first-half effort from Wolves, the West Londoners proved too strong, capitalizing on defensive lapses to secure all three points at Stamford Bridge.
Key Moments
- Early Dominance: Chelsea started aggressively, with Cole Palmer narrowly missing early chances and testing Wolves’ keeper José Sá.
- Opening Goal: Reece James’ strike led to Tosin Adarabioyo’s close-range finish from Pedro Neto’s corner, awarded after a VAR review despite an initial offside call.
- Wolves Equalize: Matt Doherty bundled in an equalizer just before halftime after Robert Sánchez fumbled Matheus Cunha’s corner.
- Chelsea Respond: Marc Cucurella restored Chelsea’s lead in the second half with a well-placed finish after Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall flicked on Noni Madueke’s cross.
- Madueke Seals It: Noni Madueke added a third, heading home Trevoh Chalobah’s assist from a Cole Palmer free-kick.
Match Insights
- Set-Piece Struggles: Wolves conceded their 19th set-piece goal of the season, highlighting a defensive weakness that cost them dearly.
- Chelsea’s Clean Sheet Woes: Despite the win, Chelsea has managed just one clean sheet in their last 12 home league games.
What’s Next?
- Chelsea: The Blues will face Manchester City away next Saturday in a crucial fixture.
- Wolves: Still perilously close to the relegation zone, Wolves host Arsenal the same day.
Chelsea’s victory saw them leapfrog Newcastle United and Manchester City, while Wolves remain above the relegation zone only on goal difference.
