Chelsea claimed a well-deserved 2-0 victory over Fulham at Stamford Bridge in a tense West London Derby on Saturday evening, with goals from João Pedro and Enzo Fernández sealing the points.
The match started at a frantic pace, with both sides creating half chances, but it was Fulham who thought they had taken the lead midway through the first half, only for VAR to controversially rule out the goal for offside. That decision seemed to ignite the game, as tempers flared and tackles flew in across the pitch.
Chelsea, however, grew stronger as the first half wore on. Deep into stoppage time, the breakthrough arrived when João Pedro rose highest inside the box to head home in the 45+9th minute, sending the Stamford Bridge crowd into wild celebrations.
After the break, Chelsea pressed forward and soon doubled their advantage. In the 56th minute, VAR once again played a key role, spotting a handball from Fulham’s defence. A penalty was awarded, and Enzo Fernández made no mistake from the spot, coolly sending the goalkeeper the wrong way to put the Blues 2-0 up.
Fulham tried to mount a late rally through Raul Jiménez and Sander Berge, but their efforts were repeatedly blocked by Chelsea’s resolute backline. The Blues also created further openings, with Estevão and Reece James going close, but were unable to add a third.
In the end, Chelsea’s control and composure saw them comfortably see out the match, extending their unbeaten run and climbing into the Premier League’s top spots. Fulham, meanwhile, slipped to 14th in the table, losing their unbeaten record after three matches.
⚽ Goals:
- João Pedro (Chelsea) – 45+9’
- Enzo Fernández (Chelsea, penalty) – 56’
