Chelsea 1-3 Brighton & Hove Albion: Post-match review, Stats, Key moments

The match's early stages saw Chelsea take the lead through Enzo Fernández's well-taken goal in the 24th minute, giving the home side hope of a much-needed victory. However, the game's complexion changed dramatically when Trevoh Chalobah received a red card in the 53rd minute after a VAR review, leaving Chelsea with ten men for the remainder of the match. This numerical disadvantage shifted the momentum towards Brighton, who began to press harder.

Brighton's late surge was the defining factor in the game. Danny Welbeck's introduction as a substitute in the 67th minute proved pivotal, as he scored twice in the final minutes, first in the 77th and then in the 90+10th minute. Maxim De Cuyper's goal in the 90+2nd minute sealed the victory, showcasing Brighton's ability to maintain pressure and capitalise on Chelsea's defensive lapses in the dying moments of the game.

Chelsea lined up in a 4-3-3 formation, with Robert Sánchez in goal and a back four of Reece James, Trevoh Chalobah, Jorrel Hato, and Marc Cucurella. The midfield trio of Andrey Santos, Moisés Caicedo, and Enzo Fernández provided a solid base, while Estêvão, João Pedro, and Pedro Neto led the attack. The early substitution of Joshua Kofi Acheampong for Chalobah after his red card was a necessary adjustment, but it disrupted Chelsea's rhythm. Enzo Fernández's goal was a highlight, but the team struggled to maintain their shape and effectiveness after going down to ten men.

Brighton & Hove Albion opted for a 4-2-3-1 formation, with Bart Verbruggen between the posts and a backline of Joël Veltman, Jan Paul van Hecke, Lewis Dunk, and Ferdi Kadıoğlu. The midfield was anchored by Carlos Baleba and Yasin Ayari, with Yankuba Minteh, Diego Gómez, and Kaoru Mitoma supporting Georginio Rutter up front. The introduction of Danny Welbeck as a substitute in the 67th minute proved decisive, as he scored twice to turn the game in Brighton's favor. Mats Wieffer's substitution also added fresh legs and energy to the midfield, contributing to Brighton's late dominance.

Event Lineups

Enzo Fernández is Coral’s Man of the Match, and his performance was pivotal despite Chelsea's loss. He scored the only goal for Chelsea in the 24th minute, showcasing his ability to find the back of the net from midfield. Although he didn't register any assists or create big chances, his key pass was instrumental in Chelsea's early lead. Fernández's contribution was a bright spot in an otherwise disappointing day for the Blues.

Recent Premier League matches:

• Loss: 1-3 vs Brighton & Hove Albion (H)

• Loss: 1-2 vs Manchester United (A)

• Draw: 2-2 vs Brentford (A)

Recent Premier League matches:

• Win: 3-1 vs Chelsea (A)

• Draw: 2-2 vs Tottenham Hotspur (H)

• Loss: 1-2 vs AFC Bournemouth (A)

• Win: 2-1 vs Manchester City (H)

Chelsea now sit in 8th place with 8 points, and their next challenge is against Benfica in the Champions League on September 30, 2025. This result against Brighton will likely prompt a reassessment of their defensive strategies, especially after playing with ten men for a significant portion of the game. They'll need to regroup quickly and focus on maintaining discipline and solidity at the back to turn their fortunes around.

Brighton & Hove Albion have moved to 10th place with 8 points, and they face Wolverhampton Wanderers, who are struggling at the bottom of the table with just 1 point, on October 04, 2025. This victory against Chelsea will boost their confidence, and they'll look to continue their positive momentum against Wolves. Brighton will aim to maintain their late-game focus and capitalise on their opponents' weaknesses.

• Man United Vs Sunderland

• Leeds United Vs Tottenham

• Chelsea vs Liverpool

• Everton vs Crystal Palace

• Newcastle vs Nottingham Forest

• Bournemouth vs Fulham

• Brentford vs Man City

• Arsenal Vs West Ham

• Wolves vs Brighton

• Aston Villa Vs Burnley

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Odds and market details are accurate as of the time of publication.