Chelsea overcame Brighton 3-2 at Stamford Bridge despite playing with one less player for over half the match, revealing a conspicuous weakness.
Mauricio Pochettino must be content securing three points against a tough opponent, yet the game highlighted some areas for concern. Here are four key talking points highlighted by Express Sport.
The influence of a trio becomes pivotal.
Chelsea almost squandered their lead against Brighton if not for the vital contributions of three exceptional players. Enzo Fernandez displayed his class with two Premier League debut goals, complemented by his exceptional passing, maintaining control for his team.
Levi Colwill showcased defensive strength against his former loan club, Brighton, and sealed off a solid performance with a well-executed headed goal.
Additionally, despite some imperfections, Mykhaylo Mudryk exhibited moments of brilliance. His electrifying pace led to the penalty that secured Chelsea’s 3-1 lead and control of the game.
A glaring disciplinary issue surfaces.
Chelsea’s manager, Mauricio Pochettino, highlighted discipline as a significant concern. Conor Gallagher, assuming the captain’s role, received a second yellow card following an aggressive challenge on Billy Gilmour, leaving the fans outraged.
Gallagher, despite his impressive season, is now suspended for the next match against Manchester United. Chelsea has racked up nearly 50 bookings this season, leading the Premier League in this regard.
Pochettino misses an opportunity.
Although Chelsea has overcome a dry spell in front of goal, it’s evident that Pochettino’s team could harness more from their speed in attack.
Mudryk, alongside rapid players Nicolas Jackson and Raheem Sterling, formed a front-three that should have caused chaos against Brighton, a side not keen on sitting back. However, promising runs off the last defender’s shoulder often ended in sideways passes rather than exploiting their pace.
Brighton’s standout moment.
Despite their defeat, 18-year-old Facundo Buonanotte left an indelible mark at Stamford Bridge. He cut inside on his left foot and fired a sublime strike into the bottom corner, rallying Brighton against the 10-man opposition. Although Joao Pedro’s late header narrowed the deficit, Chelsea secured the win, propelling them to 10th in the Premier League standings.
