Depleted by injuries and suspensions to eight key players, Chelsea delivered a spirited performance to defeat reigning champions Liverpool 2–1 in the Premier League.
A stunning early strike from Moisés Caicedo set the tone before substitute Estevão Willian sealed the win with a dramatic late goal.
The Blues struck first inside 15 minutes when Caicedo was afforded space outside the box and unleashed a thunderous 20-yard effort that left Alisson with no chance.
Liverpool nearly responded moments later through Dominik Szoboszlai, but the midfielder’s effort from a cutback flew narrowly wide — their best opportunity of the opening half.
After the break, Liverpool increased the tempo and found their equaliser just past the hour mark. Cody Gakpo reacted quickest to a clever flick from Alexander Isak, slotting home from close range to level the score.
Despite enforced defensive changes, Enzo Maresca’s men refused to sit back. Their persistence paid off deep into stoppage time when Estevão ghosted in at the far post to convert a low cross, sparking wild celebrations at Stamford Bridge.
The result lifts Chelsea to sixth in the table with 11 points, while Liverpool remain on 15 — one behind leaders Arsenal heading into the international break.
Maresca will take pride in his team’s resilience and control, particularly during a first half dominated by his side. For Liverpool, however, there were warning signs.
Alexis Mac Allister struggled once again in midfield, and defensive lapses continued to undermine Arne Slot’s men.
With the title race beginning to intensify, Slot faces a crucial task during the international break to tighten his side’s structure and rediscover the fluency that defined their early-season form.
