Pedro Neto Inspires Late Chelsea Comeback
Chelsea revved up a pulse-quickening 2-1 win over Fulham at Craven Cottage on a drizzly Sunday evening. The victory, which was secured by a stoppage-time strike from Pedro Neto, came after a frustrating first half. And this outcome breathed new life into Chelsea’s Champions League prospects with a handful of games remaining in the Premier League season.
Fulham struck first. Alex Iwobi finished in the 20th minute after a misjudged clearance from Reece James. The early lead gave Fulham confidence, and Chelsea struggled to react. Passes went awry, their midfield lacked bite and options up front appeared stale.
It was at halftime that Enzo Maresca took some bold decisions. He introduced Jadon Sancho and Malo Gusto. The switch gave a new pace and creativity to Chelsea’s flanks. The midfield started to go higher, and Sancho freed up the wide areas.
The Blues kept pushing. Fulham, meanwhile, opted to defend. That approach cost them. Tyrique George then slotted a composed finish inside the box in the 83rd minute. It was his first goal in the Premier League, and it could not have come at a better time.
Then came the winner. In stoppage time, Enzo Fernández caressed a clever ball through Fulham’s defense. Pedro Neto seized on the ball and struck a low shot into the net past Bernd Leno. The Chelsea bench erupted. Neto’s goal snapped the team’s eight-match winless streak on the road. It also showed how much damage they can do in transition.
Fulham Collapse Late as Chelsea Climb the Table
This match was vital for both clubs. Chelsea needed three points desperately, to remain in the Champions League conversation. Fulham, meanwhile, were trying to close in on a potential European qualification place.
Fulham gradually improved, however, and were the more dangerous side for much of the game. It was seamless, and Willian’s combination play with Andreas Pereira was troubling for Chelsea’s backline. But their decision to sit deeper after the interval invited pressure.
Chelsea exploited the absence with some voracity. Maresca’s changes worked a treat. George and Sancho stretched the play; Fernández dominated the midfield possession. Fulham could not keep pace with Chelsea’s tempo in the attacking third.
The defeat is frustrating for Fulham. They had the lead, the home advantage, and control for large parts of the first half. But their win was denied by late mistakes and poor defending.
Chelsea, level on points with Nottingham Forest, move up to fifth place. Forest do still have a game in hand, however the Blues now have momentum once again. With Neto and George taking their games to the next level, the roster feels more rounded and competitive than ever.
Author’s Opinion: Chelsea Show Fight, Fulham Lack Finish
There were two different stories in this match. Chelsea returned after the break with vigor and desperation. Sadly, Fulham lost both those games. The game changed when the attitude changed after the half. Maresca’s players bought into the comeback. Fulham didn’t respond to that intensity.
A lot of credit goes to Pedro Neto. He has been a consistent player since he came to the club. Tonight, he was not just clinical, he was brave. He created space, remained calm, and scored like a leader. Tyrique George deserves credit for stepping up at the age of 18.
Chelsea fans can breathe easy now. The victory provides a confidence boost ahead of their key matches with Tottenham and Newcastle. But it takes more than a single performance. Maresca has to make sure this level is maintained through May.
The second half didn’t bring a change of scene for Fulham and Marco Silva has to think about his tactical response. Against teams such as Chelsea, the passive approach is seldom a success. Fulham could have ended the game early, but failed to do so.
This derby was thrilling. It was a reminder, for Chelsea, of their resilience. For Fulham, it was a lesson in missed chances.
For more sports updates, make sure to follow us on:
Pingback: Chelsea George: Teenager’s Rise in £1bn Squad