Crystal Palace vs Chelsea: Estevao stars as Chelsea win 3-1 at Selhurst Park
Introduction: Why this match mattered
The Premier League clash between Crystal Palace and Chelsea at Selhurst Park carried immediate significance for both clubs. Chelsea’s 3-1 victory not only delivered three valuable points but also moved the Blues up to fourth in the table. For Palace, the game came early in Liam Rosenior’s reign and offered an early test of the new manager’s plans. The contest was notable for individual displays, tactical choices and a decisive run of goals that settled the outcome.
Main body: Key events and match details
Goals and turning points
Chelsea took control with a dominant spell that produced three goals by the 64th minute. Joao Pedro opened the scoring after a neat exchange with Estevao and finished confidently, a move in which he might have passed to Enzo Fernandez but instead cut inside Palace’s Wharton to strike. Estevao Willian, who had been bright throughout, also featured prominently: a curling shot from the edge of the box drew a one-handed save from Palace goalkeeper Sam Johnstone (referred to in reports as Henderson), and a subsequent effort by Marc Cucurella lacked the power to beat the keeper.
The Blues then extended their lead before Enzo Fernandez converted from the penalty spot to make it 3-0. Reports note a later late consolation from Chris Richard for Crystal Palace but by that stage Chelsea were well on their way to a comfortable win.
Line-ups and substitutions
Chelsea made several notable selections and changes. The starting XI included James (captain), Badiashile, Chalobah and Cucurella in defence, with Andrey Santos alongside Moises Caicedo in midfield. A front four of Estevao, Fernandez, Pedro Neto and Joao Pedro provided the attacking threat. Substitutions saw Caicedo replaced by Fofana (74′), Estevao by Gittens (74′), Neto by Gusto (74′) and Joao Pedro by Delap (85′). James was replaced by Hato at 81′.
Player performances
Player ratings highlighted Estevao as ‘sensational’, while suggesting Moises Caicedo was off the boil. The win was described as an impressive performance by Chelsea at Selhurst Park.
Conclusion: Significance and outlook
Chelsea’s 3-1 victory over Crystal Palace strengthens their position in the Premier League and will boost confidence as the season progresses. For Palace, the match provided moments to build on under Liam Rosenior but also underlined areas needing attention. Supporters can expect both teams to reflect on this result as they prepare for upcoming fixtures, with Chelsea aiming to maintain their place in the top four and Palace seeking improvements in subsequent matches.
