Blues’ Lackluster Attack Fails to Break Down Resiliant Eagles in Goalless Draw
Chelsea’s Premier League campaign got off to a sluggish start as a determined Crystal Palace side held them to a frustrating 0-0 draw at Stamford Bridge.
With just 35 days since their Club World Cup triumph in the U.S., the Blues looked far from their sharpest, their disjointed attack struggling to break down Oliver Glasner’s well-organized visitors. Palace, meanwhile, had Eberechi Eze to thank for their brightest moments—including a disallowed free-kick that sparked controversy—as the home crowd grew increasingly restless.
Eze Shines Despite VAR Denial
Eze, whose future at Palace has been the subject of speculation, nearly silenced any doubters with a stunning first-half free-kick that flew past Robert Sanchez. However, VAR intervened, ruling it out after Marc Guéhi was adjudged to have illegally blocked Chelsea’s wall. The decision incensed the traveling supporters, but Eze still left the pitch late on to a standing ovation—a clear sign of his standing among the Palace faithful.
Chelsea’s lack of cutting edge was evident throughout. Marc Cucurella came closest with a looping header cleared off the line by Ismaila Sarr, while Trevoh Chalobah wasted a golden opportunity, blazing over from close range. Teenage debutant Josh Acheampong provided one of the few bright sparks for the Blues, earning roars from the home crowd with a thunderous tackle on Daniel Muñoz.
New Faces, Same Struggles
With Nicolas Jackson left out amid transfer links to Newcastle, new signing João Pedro led the line but failed to make an impact. Another debutant, 18-year-old Estevão Willian, showed flashes of brilliance—burning past Guéhi before setting up Enzo Fernández—but his inexperience showed as he skied a wild effort and later earned a booking for a reckless lunge.
Palace, meanwhile, remained compact and dangerous on the break. Jean-Philippe Mateta forced Sanchez into a smart save, while Eze tested the Spaniard again late on. Substitute Liam Delap had Chelsea’s best second-half chance but could only fire straight at Dean Henderson.
Defensive Grit Offers Silver Lining
With key defenders Levi Colwill and Wesley Fofana absent, academy graduate Acheampong seized his opportunity, delivering a composed and gritty performance at center-back. His display offered Chelsea fans a rare positive on an otherwise underwhelming afternoon.
As the final whistle blew, the subdued atmosphere told the story—Chelsea’s lack of preparation and sharpness was evident, while Palace left with a hard-earned point. For Enzo Maresca’s side, there’s plenty to improve before their next outing.
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