Chelsea clinched their third successive English Premier League win, marking their first such streak since October 2022, with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Fulham at Stamford Bridge. Cole Palmer, the 21-year-old striker, sealed the win with a first-half stoppage-time penalty, scoring his ninth league goal of the campaign after Raheem Sterling was fouled in the penalty area.
The decisive play began with a defence-splitting pass from Palmer, who expertly spotted Sterling’s run and delivered an inch-perfect ball for the forward. Despite the goal coming against the flow of the game, Fulham, under Marco Silva, continued to pose an attacking threat until the final whistle, but Chelsea’s defense held firm in the closing stages to maintain their momentum.
While Chelsea dominated possession early on, they struggled to test the Fulham defense. Conor Gallagher had their best chance in the opening 25 minutes, lifting a shot over the bar. Sterling and Armando Broja had later opportunities, but it was Fulham who created the first clear chance, with Harry Wilson forcing a strong save from Chelsea goalkeeper Djordje Petrovic after an intricate Fulham move.
Palmer’s clinical spot-kick just before half-time seemed harsh on Fulham, given their first-half performance. Chelsea, aiming for their fourth win in five league games, emerged re-energized after the interval. Sterling and Broja missed further chances before Fulham mounted a comeback, with Raul Jimenez testing Petrovic once again.
The return of Ben Chilwell from a hamstring injury added to the end-to-end drama. Late efforts from Gallagher and Willian struck the woodwork at both ends, but Chelsea ultimately held on for a crucial three points.
More Stories
Pep Guardiola says he must ‘find a way’ to make Manchester City win again
Leicester sack manager Steve Cooper after five months in charge
Fernández stars for Chelsea as Maresca savours winning return to Leicester