Premier League: Late penalty secures dramatic win for Chelsea
Chelsea 2 - 1 Crystal Palace
Noni Madueke secured a crucial victory for Chelsea with an 89th-minute penalty against Crystal Palace at Stamford Bridge in the Premier League.
The home team took the lead in the 13th minute after Malo Gusto's impressive play led to Mykhailo Mudryk slotting the ball home from close range.
However, Palace equalized just before half-time when Michael Olise converted Jordan Ayew's cross into a bottom corner screamer.
Despite numerous chances, Chelsea struggled to convert, raising concerns that their profligate finishing might haunt them for the second consecutive match under manager Mauricio Pochettino.
In the 77th minute, Nicolas Jackson thought he had scored, only for VAR to rule him offside after poking in Thiago Silva's deep cross.
In a tense finale, Chelsea finally got the breakthrough when VAR spotted a foul by Eberechi Eze on substitute Madueke inside the box. Madueke expertly converted the penalty, sending Palace keeper Dean Henderson the wrong way.
Pochettino expressed satisfaction with Chelsea's performance, acknowledging their numerous chances. The win marked Chelsea's third consecutive home Premier League victory and lifted them to 10th in the table.
"Clear penalty for me." ✅
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) December 28, 2023
Dermot Gallagher agrees with the referee's decision to award Chelsea a penalty against Eze! pic.twitter.com/fllsKbERiG
EFL Cup: Chelsea progress on penalties to beat Newcastle
Palace, on the other hand, faced their fifth consecutive winless game, leaving them just three points above the relegation zone. Despite being second-best for much of the match, Palace had several opportunities, including efforts from a number of their attacking players.
While there have been positive moments for Palace, such as a commendable draw against Manchester City, the team has also suffered heartbreaking defeats against Liverpool and Chelsea. The future remains uncertain for Roy Hodgson's side.
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We explored the internet for some of the best reaction from Palace and Chelsea fans.
What were your thoughts on the match? Tell us on your Facebook: European Super Football Facebook page
George messaged us on LinkedIn: "As a youthful squad, we've had glimpses of smooth teamwork, but maintaining control when we're in the lead remains a challenge. Experience will help us with that, and victories like this one will undoubtedly boost the team's confidence."
Lauren commented on a news article of the match: "In the first half, we genuinely played like a team fully dedicated to the game, but just before halftime, we began to lose our rhythm. The substitutions didn't make a significant impact, although there were some positive moments. I reckon we were fortunate to secure the win, and hopefully, things will start looking up from here. Well done, lads – keep it going."
For Palace fans, the reaction was less positive.
If things stay the same we are actually going down
— Punkie (@PunkieEth) December 27, 2023
We received the following message from Paul Jones on Facebook: "Frustrating to say the least. Chelsea were there for the taking, but Roy sets out a cautious approach. The defending and attacking of corners is embarrassing. Roy is stifling some of our players. Luton have a game in hand and are three points off the bottom three. A new manager, new team, and more investment are needed, but I doubt it will happen."
