Chelsea vs West Ham Report

Scorers: Neto 64’, Wan-Bissaka (OG) 74’; Bowen 42’

Chelsea fought back from a goal down to claim a crucial 2-1 victory over West Ham United, spoiling Graham Potter’s return to Stamford Bridge.

The win extended the record of former Chelsea managers failing to win a Premier League (PL) game on their return (D8, L15), while also lifting the Blues back into the top four.

Chelsea Dominate First Half but Lack Cutting Edge

Heading into the game with just one win from their last seven league matches (D3, L3), Chelsea were desperate for a positive result.

They started brightly, dominating possession and carving out promising openings, but their lack of incisiveness in the final third prevented them from capitalising.

Noni Madueke was Chelsea’s liveliest threat early on, curling a shot narrowly wide of the far post in the 15th minute before setting up Enzo Fernández for an effort that was dragged past the same post later in the half.

Jadon Sancho also had a sight of goal, cutting inside and sending a swerving shot off target late in the first period.

However, for all Chelsea’s dominance, West Ham struck the opener against the run of play. Levi Colwill’s careless pass was pounced on by Jarrod Bowen, who made no mistake in slotting a composed finish into the bottom corner.

Just before the break, Alphonse Areola had to be at full stretch to tip Cole Palmer’s free-kick over the bar, ensuring the Hammers went into half-time with a slender lead.

Second-Half Changes Ignite Chelsea’s Comeback

Chelsea’s sluggish start to the second half prompted Enzo Maresca into action, with the manager making four substitutions by the 61st minute in an attempt to inject fresh energy into his side. Those changes made an immediate impact, as substitute Pedro Neto restored parity.

The Portuguese winger, featuring for the first time since November, delivered a dangerous cross that was deflected back into his path, allowing him to slot home with ease and bring Chelsea level.

The goal sparked an increase in intensity, with West Ham responding by almost retaking the lead. Mohammed Kudus struck the post from a Bowen cross, though the offside flag ultimately ruled out the effort.

Wan-Bissaka Own Goal Hands Chelsea the Lead

Chelsea’s improved second-half display was eventually rewarded in the 74th minute when they took the lead in fortunate circumstances. Palmer’s whipped cross into the box ricocheted off Aaron Wan-Bissaka, looping over Areola and into the net to complete the comeback.

The Blues could have extended their lead late on, with Areola denying Konstantinos Mavropanos from scoring an own goal before Palmer curled a shot just wide. In stoppage time, Tosin Adarabioyo made a crucial block to deny Kudus, securing all three points for Chelsea.

What the Result Means for Both Sides

Chelsea’s victory sees them return to the Premier League’s top four, continuing their strong home form, having lost just once in 17 matches across all competitions (W12, D4).

The second-half revival will give Maresca confidence as his side looks to solidify their place in the Champions League spots.

For West Ham, this result marked a third consecutive league defeat against Chelsea for the first time since 2011. Their struggles continue, with Potter’s side now languishing in 15th place, seven points adrift of the top half.

Final Thoughts

Chelsea’s comeback victory was a testament to Maresca’s tactical adjustments and the impact of his substitutes. While they still lack a clinical edge in front of goal, their resilience ensured a crucial three points.

For West Ham, their defensive lapses and inability to sustain their first-half performance cost them dearly.

Potter’s return to Stamford Bridge ended in disappointment and, with the Hammers slipping further down the table, significant improvements will be needed to avoid being dragged back into a relegation battle.

For more info on this game’s outcome, you may also visit:
Chelsea v West Ham, 2024/25 | Premier League