Fulham stun chelsea at Stamford Bridge
Image credit: Chelsea FC
Chelsea suffered a 2-1 defeat against Fulham at Stamford Bridge on December 26, 2024, marking Fulham’s first victory at this venue since 1979.
The match began positively for Chelsea, with Cole Palmer opening the scoring in the 16th minute. Palmer skillfully maneuvered past two defenders before slotting the ball through Issa Diop’s legs into the bottom corner.
Cole gets his 26th #PL goal of the calendar year. #CFC | #CHEFUL pic.twitter.com/vjd0aMB79u
— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) December 26, 2024
Chelsea maintained control throughout the first half, with Palmer registering additional shots on target and goalkeeper Bernd Leno making crucial saves, including a diving header from Marc Cucurella and a powerful strike from captain Enzo Fernández.
In the second half, Fulham displayed increased energy and determination. Their persistence paid off in the 82nd minute when Harry Wilson headed in the equalizer from close range.
The momentum shifted further in Fulham’s favor during stoppage time, as substitute Rodrigo Muniz scored the decisive goal in the 95th minute, securing a memorable comeback victory for the visitors.
Statistically, Fulham’s performance justified the result. They achieved 26 touches in Chelsea’s box compared to the home side’s 20, enjoyed 52% possession, and attempted 14 shots against Chelsea’s 12.
Manager Reactions
Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca expressed his disappointment, stating,
To concede the goal we conceded at the end, it is a bad feeling. I said many times when you can’t win it’s important you don’t lose.
Enzo Maresca on today’s match. 🎤#CFC | #CHEFUL pic.twitter.com/4xW9Ey5foC
— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) December 26, 2024
He acknowledged the team’s shortcomings in the second half, particularly in managing transitions:
We conceded so many transitions. We know they are a team building from transitions. First half we controlled that very good, second half we gave them too much energy.
Maresca also addressed the absence of winger Noni Madueke from the squad, describing it as a “technical decision.”
Fulham manager Marco Silva praised his team’s resilience and the impact of his substitutes:
It is a privilege to give our fans this happiness. Second half the reaction was top. It is not a coincidence that we are the team in the Premier League that has got the most goals from players off the bench.
This defeat leaves Chelsea four points behind Premier League leaders Liverpool, who have two games in hand, thereby denting Chelsea’s title aspirations.
Fulham’s victory, their first at Stamford Bridge since 1979, propels them to eighth place, level on points with Manchester City, and within just one point of fifth-placed Newcastle, furthering their European ambitions for next season.