Blues Back in Business: Chelsea Beat Everton 2–0
Chelsea returned to winning ways in the Premier League with a polished 2–0 victory over Everton at Stamford Bridge, ending a four-game winless run in all competitions on a crisp December evening. The Blues took control in the first half as Cole Palmer, making his first home start in months following injury, broke the deadlock in the 21st minute courtesy of a clever through-ball from Malo Gusto, firing past Jordan Pickford. Chelsea then doubled their lead just before half-time when Gusto himself capitalised on Pedro Neto’s cross to slot home, giving the hosts a healthy advantage at the break. Despite Everton enjoying periods of pressure and missing a late chance against the post, Chelsea managed the second half comfortably to secure the three points and climb back into the Premier League’s top four.
Match Summary :
21’ – Goal (Chelsea): Cole Palmer breaks the deadlock with a composed finish after a well-timed pass from Malo Gusto.
45’ – Goal (Chelsea): Malo Gusto doubles the lead just before half-time, finishing Pedro Neto’s low cross.
Second Half: Everton increase pressure but struggle to create clear-cut chances against a disciplined Chelsea defence.
70’ – Turning Point: Everton hit the post, coming closest to pulling a goal back.
Full-time: Chelsea control the closing stages to secure a comfortable 2–0 Premier League win at Stamford Bridge.
Tactical tussle:
Chelsea set the tone early by controlling possession and building attacks through the right flank, where Malo Gusto’s advanced positioning consistently stretched Everton’s defensive shape. The Blues operated with quick vertical passes between the lines, allowing Cole Palmer to drift into pockets of space and dictate tempo, which directly led to the opening goal. Out of possession, Chelsea pressed selectively rather than aggressively, cutting off central passing lanes and forcing Everton wide, where crosses were comfortably dealt with. Everton tried to respond in the second half by pushing their midfield higher and increasing direct play, but Chelsea’s compact mid-block and disciplined back line limited clear chances. With a two-goal cushion, Chelsea managed the game intelligently and saw out the match with tactical maturity.
X-Factors :
Cole Palmer: His intelligent movement between the lines and calm finishing gave Chelsea early control and set the rhythm of the game.
Malo Gusto: Influential at both ends, provided the assist, scored a goal, and consistently created overloads on the right flank.
Chelsea Centre-Backs: Calm and commanding throughout, they won key duels, dealt with crosses effectively, and ensured Everton were kept to limited clear-cut chances.
Manager Reactions :
Enzo Maresca (Chelsea): “The performance and clean sheet were important. The players responded well and showed good control.”
David Moyes (Everton): “We had moments, but we weren’t clinical enough and that was the difference.”
Match stats :
| Stat | Chelsea | Everton |
| Possession | 58% | 42% |
| Shots | 16 | 8 |
| Shots on Target | 5 | 1 |
| Corners | 4 | 7 |
What It Means :
The win moves Chelsea back into the Premier League top four, strengthening their push for Champions League qualification. The clean sheet also restores confidence after recent dropped points, while Everton remain stuck in mid-table, still searching for consistency and attacking edge.
Conclusion :
Chelsea delivered a professional, no-nonsense performance when it mattered, combining control with clinical finishing. With momentum slowly returning, the key question now is whether the Blues can turn solidity into a sustained run as the season enters a crucial phase.
