Chelsea vs Brentford Report

Scorers: Cucurella 43’, Jackson 80’, Mbeumo 90’

Chelsea edged Brentford 2-1 at Stamford Bridge to secure their fourth consecutive Premier League victory, moving within two points of league leaders Liverpool and cementing their place among this season’s title contenders.

First Half: Chelsea Break Through Late

Despite their previous struggles against Brentford at Stamford Bridge, Chelsea began with intent, looking to dominate proceedings.

Early efforts from Nicolas Jackson, who nodded over, and Cole Palmer, whose shot tested Mark Flekken, signaled the Blues’ intent to control the game.

However, Brentford posed sporadic threats on the counter, with Levi Colwill producing a crucial block to deny Mikkel Damsgaard midway through the half.

Chelsea’s perseverance finally paid off in the 43rd minute, with their relentless crossing eventually yielding results.

Noni Madueke, instrumental on the flank, delivered an inviting cross into the box, where Marc Cucurella scored his first-ever PL goal for the Blues, diving to meet the ball and heading emphatically past Flekken.

Second Half: Chelsea Hold Firm Amid Brentford Resurgence

The hosts carried their momentum into the second half, pushing Brentford deep into their own half.

Jadon Sancho came close to doubling the lead with a brilliant run and cutback to Jackson, but the striker inexplicably missed from point-blank range, a glaring miss that could have proven costly.

Brentford, however, grew into the game as the half progressed. Robert Sánchez was called into action, producing a stunning one-handed save to deny Christian Nørgaard’s volley.

The visitors came even closer moments later, with substitute Fábio Carvalho rattling the underside of the crossbar.

Chelsea eventually punished Brentford for their missed opportunities in the 82nd minute. On a rapid counter-attack, Jackson redeemed himself, outmuscling Ethan Pinnock before slotting home a smart near-post finish to seemingly secure the points.

Brentford managed to pull one back in the 90th minute, with Bryan Mbuemo racing through to calmly beat Sánchez, but it was too little, too late for the visitors.

The Bigger Picture

Chelsea: Enzo Maresca’s side continues to defy expectations, turning into genuine title contenders. With four straight wins and a solid defensive setup, Chelsea now have the opportunity to go top of the table temporarily with a win over Everton next weekend.

Brentford: The Bees’ dismal away record (D1, L7) is in stark contrast to their formidable home form. If Thomas Frank’s men are to challenge for European qualification, they must resolve their travel woes.

What’s Next?

• Chelsea: The Blues head to Goodison Park next Sunday to face Everton, aiming to go top of the Premier League table.
• Brentford: Brentford will look to bounce back as they host Brighton & Hove Albion in what promises to be a challenging encounter.

With this result, Chelsea’s improbable title push gains momentum, while Brentford’s reliance on home form remains their Achilles’ heel in an otherwise competitive season.

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Chelsea v Brentford, 2024/25 | Premier League