Liam Rosenior’s flawless tenure at the Chelsea helm continued on Sunday as the Blues secured a convincing 3-1 win over Crystal Palace.
Even with talisman Cole Palmer sidelined by a minor knock, the visitors didn’t miss a beat, thanks largely to a breakout performance from Estêvão Willian.
The young Brazilian opened the scoring with a sophisticated breakaway goal before turning provider for João Pedro to double the lead shortly after the interval.
Enzo Fernández effectively ended the contest from the penalty spot, while Palace—hampered by Adam Wharton’s red card—could only manage a late consolation through Chris Richards.
The victory underscores Chelsea’s growing tactical discipline and depth under their new management.
Player Ratings
Robert Sánchez (7/10):
The Spanish shot-stopper was vital in the opening stages, producing a crucial save against Jean-Philippe Mateta when the game was still goalless. That early intervention provided the platform for Chelsea to take control.
Reece James (7/10):
Returning to his natural right-back position, the captain looked physically dominant. He neutralized Palace’s wingers with ease, proving he is still a world-class defensive anchor when fit.
Trevoh Chalobah (6/10):
Facing his former employers, Chalobah was composed and efficient. He has quickly transformed into an indispensable part of Rosenior’s preferred backline, rarely looking troubled throughout the ninety minutes.
Benoît Badiashile (6/10):
The Frenchman continued his upward trajectory with another commanding display. His reading of the game and aerial presence have made him a mainstay in the current defensive rotation.
Marc Cucurella (7/10):
Thriving in the inverted full-back role, Cucurella was a constant presence in the midfield and final third. His energy allowed Chelsea to maintain a numerical advantage during attacking transitions.
Moisés Caicedo (7/10):
Despite picking up a yellow card early on, Caicedo showed great maturity to manage the rest of the game. He won the psychological battle in midfield, eventually baiting Adam Wharton into two fouls that led to the Palace midfielder’s dismissal.
Andrey Santos (7/10):
Santos looked increasingly comfortable in the heart of the pitch. His prior experience working under Rosenior is paying dividends, as he displayed a clear understanding of the team’s pressing triggers and tempo.
Enzo Fernández (7/10):
A midfield general throughout the afternoon, Fernández was the heartbeat of Chelsea’s possession. He showcased his clinical nature by coolly converting a second-half penalty to put the result beyond doubt.
Pedro Neto (6/10):
While he linked up well with Cucurella on the left, Neto struggled to match the explosive output seen on the opposite flank. He worked hard but currently appears to be in the shadow of Estêvão’s blistering form.
Estêvão Willian (8/10):
Making a loud case for more starting opportunities, the teenager was the best player on the pitch. He showed elite pace and composure for his breakaway goal and provided a pinpoint assist for the second, carrying the creative burden in Palmer’s absence.
João Pedro (8/10):
A quintessential striker’s performance. Pedro’s hold-up play was essential for Chelsea’s structure, and he was rewarded with a well-taken goal early in the second half that effectively killed Palace’s hopes of a comeback.