Enzo Fernandez scored two goals to help 10-man Chelsea beat Brighton 3-2 at Stamford Bridge in a league game on Sunday.
Mauricio Pochettino’s side faced the challenge of playing the entire second half with 10 men after Conor Gallagher received a second yellow card just before halftime.
Despite the setback, Chelsea had already built a 2-1 lead through headers from Enzo Fernandez and Levi Colwill, with Facundo Buonanotte pulling one back for Brighton just moments before Gallagher’s dismissal. The stage was set for a potential Brighton comeback, but Chelsea reasserted their charge in the second half.
Fernandez extended Chelsea’s lead from the penalty spot after Mykhailo Mudryk was fouled, showcasing the team’s determination. Brighton, however, fought back with Joao Pedro heading in a goal at the start of a lengthy period of added time.
As the tension escalated, Chelsea survived a penalty scare in the dying moments for a possible handball against Colwill. A pitchside VAR check confirmed no infringement, securing Chelsea’s victory in a dramatic encounter.
Pochettino’s team delivered a statement win, marking not only their first league victory in six attempts against Brighton but doing so with their captain sent off and key player Cole Palmer starting on the bench due to a training injury.
The opening goal saw Fernandez nodding home a corner after a well-executed routine initiated by Palmer’s replacement, Mudryk. Colwill added the second goal in a near-identical fashion, showcasing Chelsea’s prowess from set-pieces.
Despite the numerical disadvantage, Chelsea defended valiantly, and Fernandez’s successful penalty kick sealed the three points.
The game ended with VAR drama, but Chelsea ultimately emerged victorious, highlighting their resilience and ability to secure crucial wins even under challenging circumstances.
Stats
1. It was Enzo Fernandez first league goal for Chelsea
2. Robert Sanchez made 7 saves in Chelsea’s win over Brighton, the most he’s made in a Premier League game for the Blues.
