Jackson Fires Chelsea Into Top Four as Blues Edge Past Stubborn Everton

Senegalese striker ends goal drought in crucial 1-0 win, while Toffees’ European hopes suffer another blow

Nicolas Jackson’s first goal since December proved decisive as Chelsea ground out a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Everton at Stamford Bridge, temporarily lifting them into the Premier League’s top four.

The Senegalese forward broke the deadlock in the 27th minute, latching onto Enzo Fernández’s pass before drilling a clinical finish into the bottom corner. It was a moment of relief for Jackson, who had gone 12 league games without scoring, and a crucial strike for Chelsea’s Champions League ambitions.

Despite dominating possession, Mauricio Pochettino’s side found Everton’s defense stubborn for much of the game. Noni Madueke was a constant threat, forcing Jordan Pickford into multiple saves, while Marc Cucurella and Fernández also went close. At the other end, Robert Sánchez stood firm when called upon, making key stops from Beto and Idrissa Gueye to preserve the lead.

Everton, still nervously looking over their shoulders after their points deduction, offered flashes of danger—particularly through substitute Jack Harrison—but lacked the cutting edge to punish Chelsea’s occasional defensive lapses.

The result extends Chelsea’s remarkable 30-game unbeaten home league record against Everton, dating back to 1994. More importantly, it keeps their top-four fate in their own hands ahead of a grueling run-in. For Sean Dyche’s side, back-to-back defeats serve as a reality check after their recent resurgence—with all three of their latest losses coming against potential Champions League sides.

What’s next?
Chelsea must now shift focus to their Europa Conference League semi-final while balancing a packed Premier League schedule. Everton, meanwhile, face another tough test as they battle to secure their top-flight status.

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