Chelsea secured their third straight win under manager Liam Rosenior with a 3-1 victory over Crystal Palace in the Premier League on Sunday. The victory was highlighted by the standout performance of 18-year-old Brazilian forward Estevao, who scored his first goal since November and provided an assist.
Immediate Action & Core Facts
Estevao's impact was pivotal, as he scored in the 34th minute and set up Joao Pedro for Chelsea's second goal. Rosenior praised the young player, calling him a 'special talent.' The win marked Chelsea's fourth victory in five matches under Rosenior, who took charge earlier this month.
Rosenior's managerial start has been notably successful, with back-to-back league wins. The team's improved defensive structure and attacking fluidity were key factors in the victory. However, Rosenior acknowledged that the defense still needs time to improve, as Palace scored a late goal despite being down to 10 men.
Deeper Dive & Context
Rosenior's Leadership and Team Performance
Rosenior's appointment came after a tumultuous period for Chelsea, which had won just one of their previous nine Premier League matches. His immediate impact has been compared favorably to previous managers, including Graham Potter and Mauricio Pochettino, who did not win their opening two league games.
The victory over Palace moved Chelsea into fourth place in the Premier League standings, though their position could shift depending on other results. Rosenior emphasized the importance of maintaining focus, particularly ahead of their upcoming Champions League match against Napoli.
Fan and Player Reactions
Chelsea fans celebrated Rosenior's efforts by singing his name after the win, signaling growing support for the new manager. The team's defensive improvements have been noted, with Rosenior highlighting the collective effort behind the ball as a key factor in Estevao's ability to create chances.
Enzo Fernandez also contributed to the win with a penalty goal in the 64th minute, further solidifying Chelsea's attacking threat. Rosenior stressed the need for continued improvement, particularly in defensive organization, as the team aims to secure a top-eight finish in the Champions League for direct qualification to the round of 16.
Looking Ahead
Chelsea's next challenge is a crucial Champions League match against Napoli, followed by a Premier League fixture against West Ham. Rosenior's focus remains on immediate results while acknowledging the need for long-term development. The team's recent form has raised expectations, but Rosenior has cautioned against complacency.