Chelsea delivered a commanding performance at Stamford Bridge to beat Liverpool 3-1, boosting their hopes of Champions League qualification in style. With the Reds still basking in their recent Premier League title triumph, Arne Slot fielded a much-rotated side — and it showed.
Before kick-off, Liverpool were given a guard of honour by the home side, having clinched the league last weekend with a win over Spurs. But any celebrations were quickly forgotten once the match began.
Chelsea struck early, capitalizing on a slip from Curtis Jones. Pedro Neto broke forward and found Enzo Fernandez, who calmly slotted home his 20th goal contribution of the season. The Blues were in control throughout the first half, with Liverpool managing just a single shot on target. Moises Caicedo came close when his cross struck the bar, while Noni Madueke had a goal ruled out for offside in the buildup.
The second half saw Chelsea maintain their dominance. Cole Palmer, outstanding throughout, danced down the right and delivered a low cross into the box. In the chaos that followed, Virgil van Dijk’s attempted clearance ricocheted off Jarell Quansah and into the Liverpool net.
Palmer nearly made it three with a dazzling solo run and strike that hit the post, but Liverpool pulled one back through Van Dijk’s header from a corner. Stamford Bridge briefly grew tense — until Caicedo intercepted a poor pass from Dominik Szoboszlai and was brought down by Quansah in the box. Palmer stepped up and coolly converted from the spot, ending his 12-game goal drought.
The win moves Chelsea level on points with fourth-placed Newcastle, who were held to a draw by Brighton earlier in the day. With just a few games remaining, Enzo Maresca’s side are now firmly in the mix for a top-four finish — and on this form, few would bet against them
