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Blues defeat newly-crowned champions 3-1 at Stamford Bridge as top-four race intensifies; late goals and drama across the Premier League weekend
Chelsea took a big step toward qualifying for next season’s Champions League after beating Liverpool 3-1 at Stamford Bridge on Sunday. Liverpool, who had already been crowned Premier League champions, seemed to be feeling the effects of their celebrations, and Chelsea took full advantage.
The home side got off to a flying start when Enzo Fernandez scored from close range just three minutes into the match. Chelsea then got a bit lucky in the second half. Liverpool defender Virgil van Dijk tried to clear the ball, but it bounced off his teammate Jarell Quansah’s chest and into the Liverpool goal, giving Chelsea a 2-0 lead.
Van Dijk managed to get one back for Liverpool with a header from a corner five minutes before the final whistle. But Chelsea wrapped up the game when Cole Palmer calmly scored a late penalty after Quansah committed a foul in the box. The 3-1 win gave Chelsea three crucial points in their fight for a top-four finish.
Newcastle Snatches Late Draw at Brighton
Newcastle United also stayed in the race for the Champions League spots thanks to a dramatic 1-1 draw away to Brighton. Yakuba Minteh gave Brighton the lead, but in the dying moments of the game, Alexander Isak converted a penalty to level the score. Newcastle nearly won it in injury time, but Callum Wilson’s effort went just wide.
Spurs and West Ham Play Out a Quiet Draw
Tottenham and West Ham drew 1-1 in a game that had little impact on the table. With Tottenham preparing for a big Europa League semifinal next week, they rested some key players. Both teams scored once, and the match ended with no real drama.
Manchester United Falls to Brentford in a Thriller
Manchester United lost a wild game 4-3 to Brentford, with United coach Ruben Amorim making many changes to his starting lineup. Brentford took full advantage and stormed to a 4-1 lead with goals from Kevin Schade (who scored twice), Yoane Wissa, and an own goal from Luke Shaw.
United did fight back late, with Alejandro Garnacho and Amad Diallo scoring in the final minutes to make it 4-3, but it wasn’t enough to earn a point. To make matters worse for United, star defender Matthijs de Ligt picked up an injury and will miss the second leg of their Europa League semifinal against Athletic Bilbao.
Saturday’s Matches Roundup
Aston Villa had a solid 1-0 win at home against Fulham. Bournemouth shocked Arsenal with a 2-1 victory at the Emirates Stadium, a big blow to Arsenal’s season hopes. In a match between two already-relegated sides, Leicester City beat Southampton 2-0.
Everton and Ipswich Town played out a 2-2 draw, with Ipswich coming back from behind to earn a point away from home.
Manchester City Stays in the Title Race
Manchester City continued their push to catch up with Liverpool by winning 1-0 against Wolverhampton Wanderers on Friday night. Kevin De Bruyne scored the only goal of the game, keeping City’s hopes alive.
What’s Next
Nottingham Forest will play against Crystal Palace on Monday night in the final match of the round. That result could impact the relegation battle at the bottom of the table.