In an exciting Premier League encounter, Chelsea hosted Brighton & Hove Albion at Stamford Bridge on Saturday, September 28, 2024. The match marked a significant test for both teams, with Chelsea aiming to continue their strong start under new manager Enzo Maresca and Brighton looking to maintain their unbeaten run this season.
Team News and Lineups
Chelsea welcomed back Belgian midfielder Romeo Lavia, who had been sidelined with a hamstring injury. However, captain Reece James and teenage midfielder Omari Kellyman remained out due to their respective injuries. Malo Gusto also returned to action, having played 45 minutes in the midweek Carabao Cup match against Barrow.
Brighton, on the other hand, faced a significant setback with the absence of key forward Joao Pedro, who sustained an injury during the 2-2 draw against Nottingham Forest last weekend. Other notable absences for the Seagulls included James Milner, Matt O'Riley, and Solly March.
The Match
The game was intense from the start, with both teams creating scoring opportunities. However, it was Brighton who initially took the lead, putting Chelsea under pressure. The turning point came when Jadon Sancho was fouled inside the penalty area after a quick one-two with Enzo Fernández. Cole Palmer stepped up and converted the penalty with ease, tying the score at 1-1.
Chelsea's momentum continued, and they eventually took the lead, securing a 2-1 victory. This win was crucial for Chelsea, as it helped them maintain their position near the top of the Premier League table, just three points off the leaders.
Tactical Insights
Enzo Maresca's tactical flexibility was on full display, as he utilized his extensive squad to keep key players fresh. Players like Marc Cucurella, who has been versatile in his roles, and Robert Sanchez, the former Brighton goalkeeper, played pivotal roles in Chelsea's performance. Nicolas Jackson, who has been in excellent form, continued to be a threat in the Chelsea attack.
Brighton's manager, Fabian Hurzeler, praised Chelsea's goalkeeper Robert Sanchez, highlighting his ability to build up the game from the back and his overall versatility. Despite the loss, Brighton's unbeaten run in the league remains intact, albeit with a series of recent draws.
Viewing and Highlights
The match was not broadcast live in the UK due to the 3pm Saturday afternoon blackout imposed across English football. However, fans can catch the highlights on "Match of the Day" on BBC One at 10:30pm.
Predictions and Odds
Pre-match predictions suggested a closely contested game, with many expecting a draw. However, Chelsea's performance proved them wrong, securing a vital win. The odds had Chelsea as favorites, with a win predicted at 7/10, a draw at 16/5, and a Brighton win at 7/2.
Conclusion
Chelsea's victory over Brighton marks a significant milestone in Enzo Maresca's tenure, demonstrating the team's resilience and tactical depth. As the season progresses, both teams will face more challenging tests, but for now, Chelsea can celebrate a hard-fought win against a formidable opponent.
