Chelsea's recent away form woes continued as they succumbed to a defeat against Brighton in the Premier League. Despite their historical dominance at Brighton, where they had lost only once in seven previous visits (W4 D2), Chelsea's current away form has been disheartening, with their winless streak extending to four games (D2 L2). Meanwhile, Brighton demonstrated resilience, building on their unbeaten run in home matches against top-four sides (W2 D1) and securing a crucial win that lifted them to eighth in the league standings.
The match unfolded at Brighton's Amex Stadium, where Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca described his team's performance as their "worst" since he took charge last summer. Chelsea managed to control possession for significant periods but struggled to convert this into meaningful scoring opportunities. The defensive frailties that have plagued their season were once again apparent, particularly down the left side where Marc Cucurella appeared vulnerable.
Brighton's Kaoru Mitoma opened the scoring with what was described as an "impeccable first touch," setting the tone for the match. Chelsea's Cole Palmer had an early attempt that went wide, but the team found it difficult to penetrate Brighton's defense effectively.
"For half an hour I think we were in control but after this moment [Kaoru Mitoma's goal] we looked like we could concede chances easily and we struggled to create chances." – Gary Neville
Brighton manager Fabian Hurzeler acknowledged the team's early struggles but noted their improved defense as the key to victory.
"I wouldn't say it was complete, we suffered at the start and then after the first goal we got slightly too passive. We defended quite well and that was the key today." – Fabian Hurzeler
Chelsea's performance drew criticism not only from within but also from commentators observing the game. Gary Neville pointed out the underwhelming performances of key players like Nkunku and Palmer.
"Nkunku and Palmer are very good players but they were very poor tonight. These two are very talented players. I thought they were useless as a pair tonight." – Gary Neville
Despite controlling possession, Chelsea lacked the necessary drive and intensity, which was evident in their inability to create substantial attacks.
"They are completely right to be upset, especially in this moment of the season. To come here and play in the way we played, not on the ball, in terms of desire, we probably need to show more." – Gary Neville
Brighton capitalized on Chelsea's lapses, with Danny Welbeck praising Mitoma's remarkable goal and highlighting the collective effort of his team.
"It was slow motion for me. He has got an amazing first touch. He has got a tremendous ability to bring it down and kill the ball instantly. Impeccable first touch. It is incredible. What a goal. It was a wow moment and seeing it from behind and how he brought it down. What a goal." – Danny Welbeck
Brighton's victory not only elevated their position in the league table but also illustrated their growing competitive edge against top-tier teams. The result leaves Chelsea in fourth place, four points behind third-placed Nottingham Forest, and underscores their pressing need to rectify defensive errors and improve performance consistency.
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