Chelsea fans woke up to an unexpected defeat at Stamford Bridge on Boxing Day, as the Blues lost 2-1 to Fulham in the West London Derby.
Chelsea took the lead through a brilliant solo effort from Cole Palmer, who set a new record for the most goals scored in a calendar year by a Chelsea player (26). The team played some exciting football in the first half but failed to extend their advantage. In the second half, Levi Colwill’s goal was ruled out for offside, giving Fulham a glimmer of hope. Fulham capitalized on Chelsea’s missed opportunities, with Harry Wilson scoring a close-range header to equalize.
The Blues’ failure to convert key chances ultimately cost them, as substitute Rodrigo Muniz scored a last-minute winner, earning Fulham their first victory at Stamford Bridge since 1979.
Several Chelsea players, notably Malo Gusto, Levi Colwill, and Tosin Adarabioyo, received poor ratings, with a score of 4 from The Express. Chelsea legend Mikel Obi believes some players, including these three, could benefit from a rest.
Obi commented on the performances:
- Gusto was criticized for lacking aggression in closing down Fulham’s attacks down the left, which led to Wilson’s equalizer.
- Colwill, while contributing an assist and winning vital duels, was criticized for poor positioning, especially on Fulham’s late goals.
- Adarabioyo struggled against Fulham’s fast attackers and was caught out for Wilson’s equalizer.
Obi also called out goalkeeper Robert Sanchez, who made some important saves but was partly responsible for the second goal, highlighting that now is not the time to place blame, but rather to consider resting key players and rotating the squad.
Obi pointed out key mistakes made by manager Enzo Maresca, including the decision to play Palmer on the left wing and his lack of substitutions during the game. Despite some Chelsea players underperforming, Maresca made just one substitution, replacing Nicolas Jackson with Christopher Nkunku late in the match. Obi questioned why more changes weren’t made earlier as Fulham gained momentum. He also criticized Maresca for playing only one defensive midfielder and highlighted issues with Chelsea’s long ball distribution, specifically from Sanchez. Obi believes these are areas that must be addressed if Chelsea is to challenge for a top finish in the league.
Chelsea will look to bounce back when they face Ipswich Town on Monday, hoping to break their two-game winless streak.
