Chelsea emerged victorious against Wolverhampton Wanderers with a score of 3-1, thanks to a remarkable hat-trick from Cole Palmer. The midfielder was instrumental in securing the win for the Blues during matchday 25.
Palmer netted all three goals, converting two penalties along with a brilliant strike from open play, scoring at the 12’, 34’, and 37’ marks of the first half. Wolverhampton’s lone goal came from Toluwalase Arokodare, who found the back of the net just after halftime at the 53’ minute.
Wolves had a fleeting chance to close the gap when Mateus Mane hit the post, but they ultimately couldn’t capitalize on the opportunity.
Throughout the contest, Cole Palmer stood out as the standout player, completing 27 accurate passes and attempting three shots on target. Joining him in noteworthy performances was Enzo Fernández, who managed to make 61 successful passes and took four shots at goal.
On the tactical front, Wolverhampton coach Rob Edwards set up a 4-5-1 formation with José Sá in goal, supported by Matt Doherty, Yerson Mosquera, Santiago Bueno, and Hugo Bueno in defense. The midfield consisted of João Gomes, Angel Gomes, Hwang Heechan, Adam Armstrong, and Mateus Mane, with Toluwalase Arokodare leading the line.
In contrast, Chelsea’s manager Liam Rosenior opted for a similar 4-5-1 structure, with Robert Sánchez guarding the net, and a defensive lineup of Malo Gusto, Wesley Fofana, Trevoh Chalobah, and Marc Cucurella. The midfield was bolstered by Moisés Caicedo, Andrey Santos, Cole Palmer, Enzo Fernández, and Pedro Neto, culminating with João Pedro at the forefront.
The match held at Molineux Stadium was officiated by Jarred Gillett.
As they prepare for the next match, Wolverhampton will face Nottingham Forest, while Chelsea will play at home against Leeds United.
Following this game, Wolverhampton now sits at the bottom of the table with 8 points, while Chelsea climbs to fifth place with 43 points.
Wolverhampton’s Substitutions
- 42’ 1T – Hwang Heechan out, Ladislav Krejci in
- 45’ 2T – Matt Doherty out, Rodrigo Gomes in
- 78’ 2T – Angel Gomes out, Jean-Ricner Bellegarde in
- 90’ 2T – João Gomes out, Pedro Lima in
Wolverhampton Yellow Card
- 48’ 1T – Adam Armstrong (Unsporting behavior)
Chelsea’s Substitutions
- 60’ 2T – Cole Palmer out, Alejandro Garnacho in
- 74’ 2T – João Pedro out, Liam Delap in; Malo Gusto out, Joshua Acheampong in
- 83’ 2T – Andrey Santos out, Jorrel Hato in
Chelsea Yellow Card
- 27’ 2T – Marc Cucurella
