Chelsea boosted their Champions League qualification hopes with a 3-2 victory over newly crowned Premier League champions Liverpool at Stamford Bridge. Despite Liverpool receiving a guard of honour before kick-off, a spirited Chelsea performance secured a crucial three points.
Liverpool manager Arne Slot made six changes to his title-winning side, and Chelsea capitalized, taking an early lead in the third minute through Enzo Fernandez, who expertly steered in Pedro Neto’s cross.
Chelsea doubled their advantage in the 56th minute when Cole Palmer’s intricate run caused confusion in the Liverpool box, resulting in Virgil van Dijk’s attempted clearance deflecting off Jarell Quansah and into his own net.
Substitute Darwin Nunez and Mohamed Salah both squandered opportunities for Liverpool as their travelling support continued their title celebrations. Palmer then struck the post late on before Van Dijk headed Liverpool back into the game with five minutes remaining.
However, Palmer sealed Chelsea’s win in dramatic fashion, converting a penalty in added time after Quansah fouled Moises Caicedo. The goal ended Palmer’s 18-game drought and underlined his pivotal role for Chelsea.
Palmer was instrumental throughout, playing the pass for Fernandez’s opener and his run leading to Liverpool’s own goal. His late penalty secured a vital win for Enzo Maresca’s side, who now sit level on points with fourth-placed Newcastle United, trailing only on goals scored ahead of their crucial encounter at St James’ Park next Sunday.
While Liverpool’s fans celebrated their 20th league title, the reshaped team lacked their usual intensity until the late stages. Despite late misses from Nunez and Salah, and Van Dijk’s late consolation goal, Chelsea held firm.
The focus for Liverpool now shifts to the trophy presentation on the final day of the season against Crystal Palace. For Chelsea, the victory sets up a mouth-watering clash with Newcastle in their pursuit of a Champions League spot.
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