Chelsea eased back onto the winning path in the Premier League with a 2-0 victory over Everton at Stamford Bridge.
During the Premier League game in West London, Chelsea set the tone early and never really loosened their grip. The breakthrough arrived in the 21st minute when Cole Palmer timed his run perfectly to meet Malo Gusto’s pass and steer the ball home.
The hosts continued to play with purpose and were rewarded again deep into first-half stoppage time. This time, Gusto completed a fine all-round display by finishing off a move started by Pedro Neto, giving Chelsea a commanding lead at the interval.
Everton showed greater urgency after the restart and enjoyed spells of pressure, reflected in their seven corners compared to Chelsea’s four. Iliman Ndiaye and Jack Grealish were at the heart of Everton’s attacking efforts, but clear chances went begging and Chelsea’s back line remained composed. In the end, the difference lay in Chelsea’s sharpness before the break, with Gusto’s goal and assist proving decisive.
The result lifts Chelsea back to the Premier League top four temporarily. Everton, sitting seventh, saw their hopes of closing the gap on the European spots take a dent.
At Anfield, Liverpool also recorded a timely 2-0 win over Brighton, a match shaped by early drama and a notable tactical call from manager Arne Slot.
Hugo Ekitike struck almost immediately, finding the net inside the opening minute to give the hosts a flying start. Moments later, Liverpool were forced into an early change when Joe Gomez went off injured, prompting Slot to introduce Mohamed Salah in the 26th minute.
It was a significant moment, marking Salah’s first appearance since he criticised the club, saying he felt the Premier League giants “have thrown him under a bus”. His presence instantly lifted the crowd and sharpened Liverpool’s attacking edge.
Brighton threatened in patches and forced Liverpool to stay alert, but struggled to make their chances count. Salah tested the visiting goalkeeper just before the hour mark, and seconds later Liverpool doubled their lead. From the resulting pressure, Salah delivered the assist as Ekitike rose highest to head home and complete his brace.
Liverpool were ruthless, converting their only two shots on target into goals. Brighton, despite enjoying plenty of possession and creating openings, managed just one effort on target and were left frustrated by their lack of cutting edge.
The win has pushed Liverpool up to the 6th spot on the Premier League table pending the outcome of other Matchday 16 games. As for Brighton, they are currently occupying the 9th spot.
