On a chilly Saturday afternoon, Chelsea secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Brighton in a thrilling Premier League clash. The match started off with both teams showing great determination and skill, but it was Chelsea who took the lead early on with a goal from Mason Mount. However, Brighton quickly responded with an equalizer from Leandro Trossard, keeping the game tense and exciting for fans.
As the second half unfolded, Chelsea continued to press forward and were rewarded with a winning goal from Hakim Ziyech. The Blues' defense held strong against Brighton's attacks, securing the crucial three points for their team.
João Pedro starts for the home side after all, along with former Chelsea prospect Tariq Lamptey and Billy Gilmour.
Chelsea have won four successive Premier League games for the first time since October 2022, while it’s as many wins as in their previous 12 matches in the competition (D5 L3).
Only the Premier League’s bottom four sides – Sheffield United (7), Luton Town (11), Nottingham Forest (13) and Burnley (13) – have collected fewer points in 2024 than Brighton (18).
Chelsea’s Premier League games this season have seen 137 goals in total (75 scored, 62 conceded), their most in a single campaign in the competition.
Ben Chilwell also returns to the matchday squad for the first time since the FA Cup semi-final with Manchester City, as Axel Disasi drops out all together.
Tonight’s match marks Pochettino’s 50th in charge of Chelsea, whilst it will also be Marc Cucurella’s 50th start for the Blues against his former club.
Joao Pedro and Pascal Gross went close for the Seagulls before Chelsea doubled their lead in the 64th minute, as substitute Nkunku turned in Malo Gusto’s low centre.
The Blues appeared home and dry, but they were forced to hold on for maximum points a man light, with James shown a straight red card after kicking out at Pedro.
Substitute Welbeck then steered home Pedro’s centre deep into stoppage time to set up a grandstand finish, but the hosts could not quite find the equaliser.
However, Brighton refused to back down and continued to press forward. Their efforts paid off when Leandro Trossard scored a stunning goal to put them ahead once again. Despite Chelsea's best efforts to find an equalizer, they were unable to break through Brighton's defense.
In the end, Brighton emerged victorious with a 2-1 win over Chelsea, handing the Blues their first defeat of the season. It was a hard-fought battle between two talented teams, but ultimately it was Brighton who came out on top.
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