Marc Cucurella and Nicholas Jackson provided the goals for the Blues, who dominated their resolute opponents with more than double the number of shots attempted and on target. Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo netted a late consolation.
Cucurella broke the deadlock in the 43rd minute, heading home a precise cross from Noni Madueke. Despite their dominance, Chelsea had to wait until the 80th minute to double their lead. Jackson latched onto a pass from Enzo Fernandes, skillfully evaded a defender, and unleashed an unstoppable strike into the net.
Brentford’s Mbeumo capitalized on a Chelsea defensive error to reduce the deficit in the 90th minute, but it was too late to alter the outcome. Chelsea held firm to secure a deserved win.
The victory lifts Chelsea to 34 points from 16 matches, narrowing Liverpool’s lead at the top of the table to just two points, although the Blues have played one game more.
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Elsewhere in the EPL:
– Manchester United staged a dramatic comeback to defeat rivals Manchester City 2-1 in the Manchester derby. Amad Diallo starred with a decisive performance, winning the penalty converted by Bruno Fernandes and scoring the winner after Josko Gvardiol had given City the lead in the first half. The victory marked United’s first win at the Etihad Stadium in four attempts, leaving them in 13th place with 22 points. City, now in fifth, have 27 points.
– Tottenham Hotspur thrashed bottom-placed Southampton 5-0 with an electrifying display, scoring all five goals within the first 25 minutes of the game.
– Crystal Palace continued their fine form with a commanding 3-1 win over Brighton & Hove Albion.
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Matchday Results
– Brighton & Hove Albion 1-3 Crystal Palace
– Chelsea 2-1 Brentford
– Manchester City 1-2 Manchester United
– Southampton 0-5 Tottenham Hotspur