Chelsea took a significant step towards UEFA Champions League qualification with a 3–1 win over newly crowned champions Liverpool on Sunday at Stamford Bridge, London.
The Blues made a fast start, opening the scoring in under three minutes. Cole Palmer combined well with Neto, whose cut-back found Enzo Fernández unmarked in the box. The Argentine midfielder calmly slotted a low shot past the goalkeeper to give Chelsea an early lead.
Chelsea continued to dominate proceedings and doubled their advantage through a moment of misfortune for the visitors. Palmer floated a ball into the area, which Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk attempted to clear. However, his effort ricocheted off teammate Jarell Quansah and into the net for an own goal.
Liverpool responded late in the game, with Van Dijk heading home from a corner in the 84th minute to reduce the deficit.
Also Read: Liverpool Defeats Tottenham 5–1 to Clinch Premier League Title
However, any hopes of a comeback were dashed in stoppage time when Chelsea were awarded a penalty following Quansah’s foul on Moisés Caicedo. Palmer stepped up and converted from the spot in the 96th minute, sealing victory for the hosts and ending his goal drought dating back to mid-January.
The match finished 3–1 in favour of Chelsea, keeping their Champions League ambitions alive.
Enzo Maresca’s side now sit fifth in the Premier League on 63 points, level with fourth-placed Newcastle but behind on goals scored. Both teams trail third-placed Manchester City by a single point, with three matches remaining.
Speaking after the match, Caicedo praised the team’s resilience and Palmer’s performance: “I think we did well – the team showed character. We’re happy to have won this game. Palmer deserves it. He’s been working hard and took his chance.”
