Estevao Willian Snatches Last-Gasp Win for Chelsea as Liverpool Lose Again
In a thrilling Premier League encounter at Stamford Bridge, Chelsea emerged victorious with a 2-1 win against Liverpool, thanks to a dramatic late goal from Estevao Willian. The victory inflicts a third consecutive defeat in all competitions on Liverpool.
The Blues took an early lead in the 14th minute through a stunning strike from Moises Caicedo. Malo Gusto played a short pass to Caicedo, who beat Alexis Mac Allister to the ball and unleashed an unstoppable shot from outside the box that crashed into the top left corner of the net. The goal was Caicedo's first for Chelsea and his third in the competition. Chelsea maintained a slight edge in possession and created more significant chances throughout the first half. However, both Benoit Badiashile and Josh Acheampong were forced off injured, causing problems at centre-back for Chelsea.
Liverpool responded in the second half, with Cody Gakpo equalising in the 63rd minute. Alexander Isak's touch from Dominik Szoboszlai's cross fell into Gakpo's path, who stabbed the ball into the net. Florian Wirtz came on at half-time and briefly lifted Liverpool. Despite Liverpool's improved performance in the second half and a higher expected goals metric, they struggled to convert their chances.
As the game appeared to be heading for a draw, Chelsea pushed for a late winner. Substitutes Jamie Gittens and Estevao forced Liverpool's goalkeeper, Giorgi Mamardashvili, into making saves. In the 95th minute, Estevao Willian sealed the victory for Chelsea with his first goal for the club. Marc Cucurella delivered a cross to the far post, where the 18-year-old Brazilian slid in to beat Andy Robertson to the ball and squeeze it home.
The late goal sparked scenes of jubilation at Stamford Bridge, with manager Enzo Maresca sprinting down the touchline to celebrate with his players. Chelsea's performance was marked by guts and fresh ideas. The result throws open the title race as Liverpool suffer back-to-back defeats.
Other Premier League results on Saturday saw Arsenal move to the top of the table with a 2-0 win against West Ham. Manchester United defeated Sunderland 2-0, and Tottenham Hotspur won 2-1 against Leeds United.
