Chelsea overcame a costly error from goalkeeper Robert Sanchez to secure a 3-1 victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers at Stamford Bridge on Monday. The win ended a five-game winless run and propelled them back into the Premier League’s top four.
Enzo Maresca’s side had slipped down the table after a series of disappointing results, but second-half goals from Marc Cucurella and Noni Madueke ensured they returned to winning ways. The victory restores hope for Chelsea’s push to qualify for next season’s UEFA Champions League.
Chelsea dominated possession early on, with Cole Palmer testing Wolves’ goalkeeper José Sá with a curling effort. The home side’s pressure paid off in the 25th minute when Tosin Adarabioyo fired in his first Premier League goal for the club. The defender capitalized on a deflected shot from Reece James, coolly finishing from close range after a VAR check overturned an initial offside call.
Despite their dominance, Chelsea were pegged back just before halftime when Robert Sanchez dropped an inswinging corner from Matheus Cunha under pressure, allowing Matt Doherty to tap in the equalizer for Wolves.
Undeterred, Chelsea responded strongly in the second half. On the hour mark, Marc Cucurella restored their lead by stretching to hook in Noni Madueke’s cross, which had been flicked on by Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall. Just five minutes later, Madueke headed home Trevoh Chalobah’s goal-bound effort to make it 3-1.
Wolves attempted a late comeback, but Sanchez redeemed himself by saving a powerful shot from Cunha. Chelsea held firm to secure all three points, leapfrogging Newcastle United and Manchester City in the standings. They now face a crucial match against City in their next fixture.
Manager Enzo Maresca praised his team’s resilience, stating, “The boys showed great character to bounce back after recent results. We’re focused on each game as it comes.”
For Wolves, the defeat leaves them teetering above the relegation zone on goal difference after three consecutive losses. New manager Vítor Pereira, who previously coached Chinese Super League club Shanghai Port from 2018 to 2020, faces an uphill battle to steer his team to safety.
As the season progresses, both teams will be eager to improve their fortunes. Chelsea will look to build on this momentum, while Wolves must find answers quickly to avoid slipping further into danger.
Reference(s):
Chelsea top Wolves 3-1 at home to return to top four in Premier League
cgtn.com
