January 20, 2025
Chelsea secured a 3-1 win against Wolverhampton Wanderers, ending a five-match winless streak in the Premier League. The victory propels Chelsea to fourth place in the standings, now holding 40 points, trailing leaders Liverpool by 10 points.
The match began with Chelsea asserting dominance, leading to Tosin Adarabioyo opening the scoring in the 24th minute. A corner kick led to a deflected shot from Reece James, which found Adarabioyo, who controlled the ball and finished confidently. Initially flagged offside, the goal was awarded after a VAR review confirmed Adarabioyo was onside.
Wolves equalized in first-half injury time following an error by Chelsea goalkeeper Robert Sanchez. Failing to secure a near-post corner, Sanchez allowed Matt Doherty to tap in the equalizer. This marked Sanchez's fourth error leading to a goal this season.
In the second half, Chelsea regained control. Marc Cucurella restored the lead in the 60th minute, marking his 100th Premier League appearance with a close-range finish after a well-executed move. Five minutes later, Noni Madueke extended the lead by heading in from close range, following a header from Trevoh Chalobah, who was making his first appearance since returning from a loan spell at Crystal Palace.
Chelsea's head coach, Enzo Maresca, praised the team's resilience, stating, "The players showed great character to bounce back after recent results." He also defended Sanchez, emphasizing the goalkeeper's contributions throughout the season despite recent errors.
The win places Chelsea two points above fifth-placed Manchester City, with a crucial match against City scheduled next. Wolves, meanwhile, remain just above the relegation zone on goal difference, having suffered their third consecutive league defeat.
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