Author: Amrit Santlani
Chelsea picked up only their second win of the Premier League season so far thanks to Mykhailo Mudryk’s first league goal, while Armando Broja also scored in Chelsea’s 2-0 win. Mauricio Pochettino’s side traveled to Craven Cottage with the aim of getting their campaign back on track and were successful in their latest adventure, climbing to 11th place with the win.
Broja had the chance to put Chelsea ahead just 80 seconds after kick-off, but the Albanian couldn’t keep his attempt on target, sending the ball over the Z-line. The Blues, however, kept trying, Mudryk sending another attempt over the top, before Fulham defended well to stop Connor Gallagher’s cross.
In the 18th minute, Mudryk finally scored his first Premier League goal, latching onto a pass from Levi Colwill which he took on his chest and finished through Bernd Leno’s legs. A minute later, Broja doubled the lead: Cole Palmer stopped a misplaced pass from Tim Ream, passed to Broja, and the centre-forward was there to finish with ease.
Enzo Fernandez hit a shot from outside the box that was well wide of the target as Chelsea tried to get on the scoresheet. Raul Jimenez failed to hit the target with his header, while Fulham squandered a good chance to trouble Chelsea just before half-time.
After the restart, there was a flurry of chances for both sides. Palmer crossed for Broja, who again failed to keep his header on target. Palmer hit a left-footed shot, but Leno was equal to it.
Alex Iwobi’s first touch let him down, as the Nigerian was alone in the Chelsea penalty area but failed to control Antonee Robinson’s cross. Ian Maatsen was unlucky to hit the crossbar with a point-blank shot, and Fernandez’s rebound was well saved by Leno.
Saša Lukić made an impressive point-blank save from Robert Sanchez and, despite all their efforts, Fulham couldn’t get anything out of the game.
Brazilian veteran Thiago Silva was excellent, making seven tackles and playing the whole match. His fellow countryman Carlos Vinícius entered the field in the 53rd minute, but failed to make an impact on the contest. Willian also played an average part, combining well with his teammates, but he didn’t make an impact as he played the whole game. Andreas Pereira wasn’t at his best and was substituted midway through the second half.