This Saturday, Chelsea had the opportunity to finally break the crisis at Stamford Bridge. After a disastrous September, the Blues were looking to finally get back on track in the league after three winless games. In midweek, the Londoners had managed to win the Champions League against Benfica (1-0) and wanted to continue that momentum. Liverpool , meanwhile, are also going through a difficult period. Beaten last week by Crystal Palace, the Reds similarly suffered a midweek defeat at Galatasaray (1-0).
In this clash between the struggling top teams, it was the home side who lit the first fuse. Sharper in the first half, Enzo Maresca's men found the net with a sublime strike. Fought down the middle by Malo Gusto, Moises Caicedo didn't hesitate and unleashed a ballistic missile that lodged itself in the top corner (1-0, 11th). Reinvigorated by this superb opening goal, Chelsea continued to control the game and mounted several offensive attacks. Liverpool responded in bits and pieces and even came close to equalizing if it weren't for Badiashile's valiant block against Gakpo (18th).
Estevao and Chelsea crucified Liverpool in added time
Overall, Chelsea maintained control of the first half. More incisive, Alejandro Garnacho's teammates, who were very active this Saturday, came close to regaining the lead if it weren't for the Argentinian hitting the post (43rd). After the break, the debate was more balanced. By becoming more aggressive in the duels, Arne Slot's flock responded with clear chances from Wirtz (47th) and Salah (51st). Impacted by Badiashile's injury (54th), Chelsea finally gave in to a harmless attack. After a cross from Szoboszlai on the right flank, Isak's angled control benefited Gakpo to beat Sanchez from close range (1-1, 64th).
The poorly paid capital club also had to deal with the latest injury to a defender in the form of Josh Acheampong, who was taken off injured in the 68th minute. Determined to win, Chelsea pushed to regain the lead. Ultimately, their promising attacks were all thwarted by a united Liverpool defense and a vigilant Mamardashvili in goal (84th, 89th). The technical lapses of Marc Guiu (86th) and Gittens also didn't help (88th) while Enzo Fernandez's header hit the post (90th+1st). Finally, Chelsea were rewarded late in the match for all their efforts. Found in the box, Marc Cucurella found Estevao with a low cross. The 18-year-old Brazilian didn't hesitate and beat Mamardashvili (2-1, 90th+6th). With this prestigious victory, Chelsea climbed to sixth place and returned to winning ways in the league. Meanwhile, Liverpool lost their top spot to Arsenal.
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