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September 15, 2024

In a closely contested match, Chelsea emerged victorious with a late goal from Nkunku, following a crucial penalty save by Sanchez. The final score was Bournemouth 0-1 Chelsea.

Christopher Nkunku made an impact off the bench by netting the decisive goal. the decisive goal for Chelsea in a 1-0 victory over Bournemouth in the Premier League. This win propels Enzo Maresca’s side into seventh place, surpassing Bournemouth in the standings. Chelsea now has seven points from four matches, while Bournemouth lags slightly behind with five. This victory is significant as it not only moves Chelsea up the table but also sets a positive trajectory for their season. Earlier in the game, Robert Sanchez made a crucial penalty save from Evanilson, keeping Chelsea in.

Nkunku’s impact was immediate, netting the winner seven minutes after coming on. He skillfully turned away from three Bournemouth defenders to score, following an assist from fellow substitute Jadon Sancho, who added much-needed energy to Chelsea’s attack. Despite Bournemouth’s dominance with 19 shots, including two efforts that hit the woodwork, they could not find a breakthrough. Marcus Tavernier came closest, rattling the crossbar after just four minutes.

Bournemouth’s best opportunity came from Evanilson, who earned and took the penalty himself, but Sanchez’s outstanding save kept Chelsea level. For his role in giving away the penalty, Sanchez was one of 14 players booked, setting a Premier League record for yellow cards in a single game. Despite Bournemouth’s relentless pressure, Chelsea’s defense, led by Sanchez, managed to secure their first clean sheet in 18 away Premier League matches, moving up to seventh place, while Bournemouth sits 11th, two points behind.

Talking Point – Signs of Progress for Chelsea, but More Needed

Chelsea’s win may offer hope, but the performance revealed ongoing challenges. The team is still finding its rhythm with squad turnover and a new manager. Illness and injuries complicated matters further, and Chelsea’s display in the first half gave little indication of progress. However, Sancho’s introduction after halftime was a bright spot, adding creativity and spark to the attack. Renato Veiga also grew into his first Premier League start, and Nkunku, often overshadowed by Chelsea’s many summer signings, proved crucial. These new signings show promise for the team’s future.

Despite the win, questions remain. Bournemouth’s numerous chances suggest Chelsea’s clean sheet was more luck than skill, and the Blues rarely looked in control. Whether Enzo Maresca can build on this result remains to be seen.

Player of the Match – Jadon Sancho (Chelsea)

Sancho’s second-half performance made all the difference for Chelsea, as he was involved in most of their chances, including the assist for Nkunku’s winning goal. On a day when Cole Palmer struggled, Sancho’s standout performance was a ray of hope for the team and the fans.

Player Ratings

Bournemouth: Travers 6, Smith 6, Zabarnyi 7, Senesi 6, Kerkez 7, Cook 7, Christie 7, Kluivert 6, Tavernier 7, Semenyo 6, Evanilson 5. Subs: Sinisterra 5, Scott 5, Araujo 6, Billing 6, Unal n/a.

Chelsea: Sanchez 7, Disasi 5, Fofana 5, Colwill 7, Cucurella 7, Veiga 7, Caicedo 6, Madueke 5, Palmer 6, Neto 5, Jackson 5. Subs: Sancho 7, Adarabioyo 6, Felix 5, Nkunku 7.

Match Highlights

• OFF THE BAR! 4′ – Tavernier fires a 30-yard shot off the crossbar, narrowly missing a stunning goal.
• SAVE! 23′ – Sanchez makes a crucial stop after a Bournemouth attack, blocking Kluivert’s shot.
• PENALTY TO BOURNEMOUTH! 37′ – Evanilson wins a penalty after being fouled by Sanchez.
• PENALTY SAVED! 38′ – Sanchez redeems himself with a brilliant dive to stop Evanilson’s spot-kick.
• OFF THE POST! 58′ – Christie’s deflected shot hits the post, keeping Bournemouth from equalizing.
• GOAL! 85′ – Nkunku scores the winner for Chelsea, turning past three defenders to slot home from Sancho’s pass.