Chelsea 3-2 Brighton: Enzo Fernandez’s Premier League debut ends in victory

Enzo Fernandez, an up-and-coming talent in Chelsea, had an unforgettable evening as he achieved his first-ever brace in the Premier League. The Blues, still recovering from their significant loss to Newcastle in the previous week, successfully clinched an exhilarating 3-2 triumph over Brighton at Stamford Bridge.

Despite being left with ten players following captain Conor Gallagher’s second yellow card moments before halftime, Mauricio Pochettino’s team showcased remarkable fortitude and resolve. Fernandez, the victorious Argentine World Cup champion, secured the victory for Chelsea by expertly converting a penalty in the 65th minute. The referee awarded a penalty because James Milner was deemed to have brought down Mykhailo Mudryk, with the assistance of VAR.

Fernandez scored his first goal in the 17th minute, capitalizing on some poor defending from Brighton. Shortly after, he increased his goal count with a header from close range, once again highlighting the visitors’ defensive weaknesses.

Right before halftime, Brighton managed to score a delightful goal through Facundo Buonanotte. Joao Pedro’s last-minute header revived their chances of securing a draw, but it proved insufficient as they endured their initial loss to Chelsea in six encounters.

The game had its own share of contentious moments. As the match was nearing its end, VAR brought about confusion when it was evident that Levi Colwill’s header had deflected off the ball. Initially, referee Craig Pawson signaled a penalty, but he rectified his ruling upon reviewing the video footage. This turn of events left the away supporters disheartened, believing that a penalty had been granted to their team. Following a tumultuous afternoon where both teams engaged in a confrontation with the match officials at the end of the game, Chelsea managed to ascend to the 10th position in the standings. With this triumph, they are now just three points behind Brighton, who still hold onto the 9th spot with 22 points from 14 matches.

In general, the clash at Stamford Bridge was an exhilarating one, particularly due to Enzo Fernandez’s remarkable display that stole the spotlight. Chelsea now aims to capitalize on this victory and sustain their upward trajectory in the Premier League rankings.