Chelsea bolstered their push for a Premier League top-four spot with a convincing 3-0 win over Aston Villa, extending Villa’s winless run to eight matches.
The match began at a blistering pace, with Chelsea striking early. Marc Cucurella’s tenacity set the tone as he dispossessed Jaden Philogene with a firm tackle, despite Villa’s appeals for a foul. Seizing the opportunity, Cucurella delivered a precise pass to Nicolas Jackson, who slotted home his eighth league goal of the season from close range.
Aston Villa’s best chance of the half came when Ollie Watkins outpaced Wesley Fofana to a loose ball.
However, Chelsea goalkeeper Robert Sanchez reacted swiftly, rushing off his line to deny Watkins with a sharp save.
Chelsea nearly doubled their lead through an unusual situation. Emiliano Martinez was penalized for handling a back-pass from Pau Torres, giving Chelsea an indirect free-kick just eight yards from goal. Cole Palmer unleashed a powerful shot from the set piece, but Martinez made a stunning save to keep Villa in the game.
Moments later, the Villa goalkeeper almost gifted Chelsea another goal by passing straight to Jackson. Fortunately for Villa, Jackson’s heavy touch allowed Martinez to recover.
Chelsea’s dominance eventually paid off as they doubled their advantage before halftime. After winning possession high up the pitch, Palmer’s slick pass found Enzo Fernandez, who fired a precise shot from the edge of the box to make it 2-0.
Villa had one final chance in first-half stoppage time when Philogene played Watkins through on goal.
Once again, Sanchez was quick off his line to deny the striker, ensuring Chelsea took a two-goal cushion into the break.
